Silke Vanparys
Post-doctoral assistant at the research group 'Language, learning, innovation', within the Department of Educational Sciences, Ghent University.
silke.vanparys@ugent.be | +32 (0) 9 264 86 74| +32 (0)9 264 86 64 (secretariat) | Office 120.102
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Henri Dunantlaan 2, 9000 Gent
Interactive book reading
Primary education
Language development
Vocabulary development
Reading books and texts to and with children is one of the most popular and effective ways to boost language skills. Interactive book reading, in particular, has a significant impact on children's language development. Interactive book reading involves engaging in an open dialogue with children about the text, both before, during, and after reading.
In my doctoral dissertation, titled 'Read with me, I will learn: Interactive book reading as a foundation for vocabulary development and story comprehension in the first and second grade' I explored the potential of this language-stimulating method in primary education. My research comprised two main areas of focus. The first uncovered the microstructure of interactive book reading with early primary school children. The second shed light on the differential effects of interactive reading with children in the same age group.
As a postdoctoral researcher, I contribute to the professionalization of teachers, teacher educators, and other educational professionals in language support through (interactive) book reading.