Study: British Literacy Program Failing

A review by British academics said the $1 billion program aimed at improving English in schools was having little effect on the reading skills of students.

The review, published in the University of Cambridge, said the program, which is aimed at improving English standards in elementary schools, is causing many students to lose enjoyment of reading and feel increased anxiety about performing well on tests, The Times of London reported Friday.

The researchers said there has been no strong evidence to support government claims that the national testing program raises standards. They said up to one-third of the country’s primary school students may be receiving grades that don’t match their skill levels as a result of the program.

The review’s authors, which included academics from the Universities of Bristol and Durham and Britain’s National Foundation for Educational Research, suggested primary school testing be overhauled and national standards be collected using sample surveys rather than collecting data from every student.