I absolutely love Istation. I used money from a fu...

I absolutely love Istation. I used money from a fundraiser to purchase it for my striving readers when district funds dried up. I am a 5th grade teacher who has seen this research based/adaptive program work miracles and close gaps for kiddos who never thought they would be able to succeed in reading. This program is very misused, under-used, and under appreciated for its capabilities, accessibility and rigor. The guided lessons are scripted so anyone (aides, subs, administrators) can teach a good, solid lesson. For teachers to just let children log onto the program and "do Istation" on their devices is not where the power is. The magic happens because Istation differentiates for each and every learner, and gives teachers choices and resources they can use to help their children reach their potential. To just "do" Istation would be boring indeed.
With that being said Istation cannot POSSIBLY compete with the animations of video games. IT IS NOT A VIDEO GAME. Rather, it is a diagnostic and prescriptive tool that doesn't just say that you have an area of need, but uses the adaptive/smart technology to prescribe what you need to become stronger. It is like comparing football and basketball. Sports lovers often, (not always) would agree that basketball and football are exciting sports to watch and play. To say that Istation is lame because it doesn't have animations like their video games is like saying basketball is lame because it isn't football. Children who finally start to comprehend text on deeper levels appreciate and love Istation for how it has helped them. To see the light of confidence shine in my students' eyes is keeps me coming back to Istation again and again. Keep shining Istation! Together, we make a difference! :)