ABSTRACT
This chapter describes an intelligent tutoring system, called Dynamic Support of Contextual Vocabulary Acquisition for Reading (DSCoVAR). DSCoVAR is designed for intermediate-level readers that is, older children, adolescents, and adults who are proficient spellers and decoders. DSCoVAR teaches words by presenting them in a series of brief written contexts that are selected to promote individualized, robust learning. This approach should prove an efficient and effective supplement to classroom instruction. The chapter explains the need for a computer-based system to teach academic words in context. It highlights key features of DSCoVAR and compares alternative computer-based methods for contextual word learning. The chapter describes how to access the DSCoVAR system. Students log in to the system using a web browser, such as Safari, Chrome, Firefox, or Internet Explorer. After log in, students are asked to complete a short strategy training module. The training includes explicit instruction in the use of context cues.
