As a co-author on this WestEd implementation study, Jena Gu investigated how Sunshine Phonics Digital Decodables supported foundational literacy development among English Learner students in grades 1–3. Using a mixed-methods design that combined classroom observations, teacher interviews, student usage data, and DIBELS assessments, the study examined both how teachers integrated the program into instruction and how students engaged with it.
The evaluation found that teachers valued the program’s high-quality decodable texts, built-in recording features, and ability to support independent phonics practice. Students demonstrated strong engagement with the program, increased confidence in reading, and improvements in foundational literacy skills, with first-grade students showing particularly notable gains in phonemic awareness and phonics.
Methods: Classroom observations, teacher interviews, implementation research, survey and usage analysis, DIBELS assessment analysis, qualitative and quantitative data integration.
