Literacy Controversies Unpacked, Buettler, Summer 2026

Course Number:	EDX 5710 S61
Instructor:	Leigh Buettler, M.Ed.
Location:	Online synchronously and asynchronously
Dates and Times:	July 2 - July 21, 2026
Credits:	1 Graduate Credit
Tuition:	Set by and payable to educational partner The Stern Center for Language & Learning

Course Description

This interactive course invites educators to engage in thoughtful, evidence-based discussions on some of the most debated topics in literacy instruction today. Each session focuses on a specific literacy topic that is the subject of debate, providing participants with curated pre-readings and guided discussion prompts.

Participants will come together in five collaborative two-hour virtual sessions to explore topics such as:

How do handwriting and typing differently impact learning and memory?
What are the benefits of small-group versus whole-group instruction?
How should we approach teaching multisyllabic words or phonemic awareness?
And how do cultural, political, and digital contexts influence literacy instruction?

The course emphasizes peer-to-peer learning and reflection, offering opportunities to analyze research, share professional experiences, and consider practical applications in classrooms.

Audience: Elementary, middle school and high school teachers, special educators, specialists, interventionists, private tutors, administrators, and literacy coaches who have an earned bachelor's degree.

Course Goals & Objectives

Course Goals:

Develop a deep, research-informed understanding of contemporary issues and debates in literacy instruction.
Strengthen the ability to connect ideas from scholarly and professional discourse to one’s own teaching, curriculum decision-making, and collaboration with colleagues.
Cultivate a reflective teaching mindset that values ongoing learning and the integration of evidence-based strategies.
Foster a professional community that engages in thoughtful dialogue to explore literacy challenges, share insights, and inspire innovation.

Course Objectives:

Critically evaluate current research and debates in literacy instruction.
Apply discussion insights to classroom practice, curriculum design, and professional collaboration.
Reflect on personal teaching approaches and consider strategies supported by research.
Engage with colleagues in meaningful dialogue around literacy challenges, strategies, and innovations.

Required Readings/Resources

All readings will be provided on the start date of the course. A selection of readings is listed below:

Ashby, J., McBride, M., Naftel, S., O’Brien, E., Paulson, L. H., Kilpatrick, D. A., & Moats, L. C. (2023). Teaching phoneme awareness in 2023: A guide for educators. https://louisamoats.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Teaching-PA-in-2023_A-Guide-for-Educators_1.30.23.pdf

Ehlert, M., Beck, J., Förster, N., & Souvignier, E. (2024). Continuous texts or word lists? Exploring the effects and the process of repeated reading depending on the reading material and students’ reading abilities. Reading & Writing, 38(3), 745–764. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11145-024-10536-5

Hu, C. (2024, February 21). Why writing by hand is better for memory and learning. Scientific American. https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/why-writing-by-hand-is-better-for-memory-and-learning/

Lambert, J. (2024, May 11). Researchers are learning that handwriting engages the brain in ways typing can’t match. NPR. https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2024/05/11/1250529661/handwriting-cursive-typing-schools-learning-brain

Loftus, M., & Sappington, L. (Hosts). (2025). Research‑based routines for multisyllabic word reading (Episode 237) [Audio podcast episode]. In Melissa & Lori Love Literacy®. Buzzsprout. https://literacypodcast.com/podcast?podcast=Buzzsprout-17634319

Montes, J. (2024, January 29). New educators face book bans. NEA Today. https://www.nea.org/nea-today/all-news-articles/new-teachers-face-book-bans

Shanahan, T. (2022, January 9). Teaching Oral Reading Fluency to Older Students. Shanahan on Literacy. https://www.shanahanonliteracy.com/blog/teaching-oral-reading-fluency-to-older-students

TNTP. (n.d.). The weight of wasted time. In The Opportunity Myth. Retrieved November 20, 2025, from https://opportunitymyth.tntp.org/the-weight-of-wasted-time

Walker, T. (2023, February 17). The culture war’s impact on public schools. NEA Today. https://www.nea.org/nea-today/all-news-articles/culture-wars-impact-public-schools

For additional course information

Leigh Buettler

(802) 276-8783

This course requires registration with the Stern Center for Language and Learning first. Please click on the Register Now button below.

For additional registration information

Please contact the Stern Team