Fast ForWord is a series of computer-based therapy programs that utilize research on how the brain learns language to assist those with a variety language-learning disorders, such as dyslexia, auditory processing disorders and other language-learning impairments.

These individuals are not able to distinguish the rapidly changing sound elements and sequences of on-going speech because their brains cannot process these sound elements quickly enough. The computer exercises acoustically alter speech sounds so they are more readily distinguishable by those with language-learning impairments. 

There are several different programs depending on the needs of the individual:

Fast ForWord Language Series builds the following foundational language skills for pre-school and elementary school students:

• sound sequencing
• fine motor skills
• hand-eye coordination
• pattern recognition
• color-shape identification
• listening accuracy
• phonological awareness
• language structures
• emphasizing the link between spoken and written language (to prepare students for reading)

 

Fast ForWord Reading Series builds the following skills for students from pre-school through high school:

• letter recognition and naming
• phonological awareness
• letter-sound associations
• phonemic awareness
• early decoding skills
• vocabulary knowledge and skills
• motivation for reading
• applying phonics and decoding strategies
• improving word recognition
• understanding the rules for reading comprehension
• reading knowledge and fluency
• phonology and spelling
• morphological properties and complexity
• syntactic complexity
• vocabulary and comprehension
• word origins and forms
• sentence structures and punctuation rules to improve comprehension
• enhancing advanced reading comprehension and expanding vocabulary skills