Table A.3
Scientific Learning Corporation
Company history
Scientific Learning was founded in 1996 to combine advances in brain
research with technology in programs to facilitate learning and communi-
cation skills.a
Service description
Scientific Learning develops educational software, products, and services
based on more than 25 years of brain research and field testing.
· One product, Fast ForWord, improves language and reading skills of chil-
dren aged 4 through 13 through "computer-controlled, repetitive training
exercises that automatically adapt to each user's performance to modify
the manner in which the brain processes language." The company is devel-
oping similar products for adults.
· The company offers seminars on brain research and markets its products
to educators and speech and language professionals.
Market penetration
Scientific Learning is currently focusing on the K12 market in the United
States but plans to expand to adults. The Web site states, "To date, tens of
thousands of individuals have achieved gains of one to two years in lan-
guage or reading skills with Scientific Learning's training programs."b
Results
Scientific Learning has tested and found significant benefits from their pro-
grams. In particular, the Fast ForWord program has been evaluated exten-
sively. "On average, children with language and reading problems make lan-
guage gains of 1.5 to 2 years after 4 to 8 weeks of Fast ForWord training."c
Cost
These programs are being used at schools and clinics and are also available
to parents. For example, the home version of Reading Edge is available for
$99, and prices for educator versions range from $129 to $1,459.
a
See http://www.scientificlearning.com/info/index.php3?main=over&cartid= and http://www.scientific
learning.com/info/index.php3?main=history&cartid=.
b
Ibid.
c
Scientific Learning Corporation, "National Field Trial Results," p. 3, http://www.scientificlearning.com.
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