On the Effectiveness and Limitations of Tutoring in Reading

In my office, there is print, Su Primer Libro, by Edward Gonzales. It shows an older man in overalls sitting with child and book. The man is pointing something out on the page to the little girl, who sits in rapt attention. Few images are more compelling than that of teacher teaching single child. American education has been attracted hopefully to such images. President Bill Clinton (1996) has called for the mobilization of a million volunteer reading tutors all across America and for unleashing the energy and enthusiasm of [college students] to help every eight-year-old learn to read. The president believes he can increase elementary reading achievement through the use of tutors supported by college work-study programs. We know [italics added] that individualized tutoring works, President Clinton said.