What was the main concern raised by the NICHD's findings in the late 1960s?

The findings from the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) in the late 1960s highlighted a significant concern regarding declining literacy rates, which was perceived as a reading crisis in the United States. This period marked a growing awareness of the challenges students faced in achieving reading proficiency and the implications this had on their overall educational success.

The NICHD emphasized research in reading instruction and the impact literacy skills have on students’ academic performance. Their work prompted a shift in focus toward understanding effective literacy instruction and provided foundational support for developing more systematic approaches to teaching reading, particularly in light of the evident struggles faced by many learners.

Recognizing the scale of this issue reinforced the need for evidence-based methodologies in teaching reading, rather than relying solely on unproven strategies. The spotlight on literacy during this time spurred discussions about pedagogical practices and informed future educational policy and instructional strategies aimed at addressing these critical literacy challenges.