What is Wilson Language Training?

One in every 59 children has at least one learning disability, such as dyslexia, ADHD, and dysgraphia. The growing number of learners with disabilities has led to the development of various assistive technology tools, programs, and curriculums. One of the more successful programs is the Wilson Language Training program, which we will discuss in great detail.

Focus areas of Wilson Language Training and how the method works

The Wilson Language Training (WLT) program is based on the Orton–Gillingham approach, which is a multisensory and structured way of mastering literacy skills. What makes the WLT program stand apart from other reading programs is that it’s designed for younger learners, adolescents, and adults. The WLT program is used by both private and public schools, as well as private reading tutors. The Wilson certification models are also incorporated into special education graduate degree programs. The main goal of this program is to help students reach an appropriate level of literacy. WLT uses structured literacy programs and research-based reading curriculums. Not only does this program offer great resources for students, but it also offers professional learning opportunities for teachers who want to work with learners with special needs as well. The most important WLT program is the Wilson Reading System, which is also the foundation of all the other Wilson programs. This program helps students master reading by breaking it down into smaller skills, such as word structure encoding and decoding, spelling, word recognition, vocabulary, listening comprehension, proofreading skills, etc.

Program structure

There are four Wilson’s programs for professional learning: Prevention, Early Intervention, Intervention, and Intensive.

Prevention

The Prevention program is developed by Wilson Fundations and it’s designed for K-3 students (kindergarten through 3rd grade). The daily lessons last 30 minutes and they can be implemented with an entire class. This program includes workshops, visual implementation support, sustainability plans, and on-site coaching. This course can be used by general education teachers.

Early intervention

Also developed by Wilson Fundations, the Early Intervention program is designed to help struggling readers before they fall behind. It focuses on K-3 students, who are organized into small groups. Each lesson lasts 45 minutes and it’s held three to five times a week. The Early Intervention course can be used by a general education teacher.

Intervention

The Intervention practicum is based on the Wilson Just Words curriculum and it’s designed for students in grades 4-12 and adults. The aim of this course is to teach individuals how to become fluent, independent readers. The lessons are 45 minutes long and they’re held three to five times a week. Students are organized into small groups.

Intensive

The Intensive program is based on the Wilson Reading System (4th edition) and it focuses on students in grades 2-12 and adults with language-based learning disabilities. Lessons are organized into three 30-minute blocks and they’re taught twice a week. They can either be held in small groups or in one-to-one sessions, in-person or online.

Beginnings of WLT and current achievements

The Wilson Language Training program was founded by Barbara Wilson and Edward J. Wilson in 1985. Co-founder Barbara Wilson is also on the committee of the International Dyslexia Association (IDA). WLT’s co-founders have put effort into improving the Wilson Learning Center for 30 years with the slogan “Literacy for All.” The Wilson Language Training provides extensive teacher training as well, as part of the Wilson Reading System. They must work with a Wilson® credentialed trainer. Once the special education teacher completes the training, they receive the WRS Level I Certification. Over 25,000 teachers in schools across the U.S. have completed this certification program as part of their professional development. Teachers can also apply for a WRS Level II Certification to teach more advanced concepts of language structure to a larger group of students. If you want to know more about the Wilson Learning Program, you can go to their website (http://www.wilsonlanguage.com) or visit the institution at 47 Old Webster Road, Oxford, MA.

Combine WLT with Speechify for amazing results

Students who have reading and learning difficulties can also benefit from assistive technology tools like Speechify. Speechify is a text to speech (TTS) service that can help people with learning differences overcome reading problems. It works by translating digital text into spoken language, which can be very useful for those who struggle with reading. Speechify can turn any written text into speech, including learning materials, emails, presentations, PDF files, documents, and more. Learners can customize their listening experience by choosing a voice, language, and accent. In addition, they can control the speed of the voiceover. You can download Speechify on your phone, as it’s available for iPhone and Android devices. It’s also possible to use Speechify as a Chrome extension. If you want to see how it works, you can try Speechify for free today.

FAQ

What is Wilson training for teachers?

Teachers can go through Wilson training and achieve the WRS Level I Certification and the WRS Level II Certification. To get this certification, teachers must go through 90 hours of online coursework and an intensive 60-lesson supervised practicum with a Wilson Trainer. Once completed, teachers are eligible for Wilson professional credentials.

Who qualifies for the Wilson Reading program?

Anyone who isn’t making sufficient progress in their education, from young learners to adults can benefit from the program. The Wilson Reading Program is especially useful for students with a language-based learning disability, such as dyslexia.

What is Wilson for law enforcement?

The Wilson community college for law enforcement is a training program for law enforcement officers and it’s a completely different institution from Wilson Language Training.

How long is the Wilson program?

The length of the program depends on which one you choose. Most WRS courses take between two and three years to complete.

What are the benefits of the Wilson program?

The Wilson Reading System is designed to help students learn how to read and learn at an appropriate level, providing them with an in-depth understanding of language structure.