Learning to Speed Read with Computers and Classes
Most adults would probably be surprised to find out that the average individual reads between 200 to 250 wpm. Within this range individuals are able to maintain a 60% comprehension. There's only a gifted set of individuals who are able to read a thousand words a minute with 90% comprehension. However, they are extraordinary individuals and account for less than 1% of the population.
Typically, we hear of individuals who can read 1500 plus words per minute with 100% comprehension. This is a farce these individuals typically are speed readers who are selling a product. When these individuals are subjected to scientific study is often found that they simply scanned text, grossly overstated words per minute, and outright lied. The most shocking statistic of all is under scientific study they ultimately retained little if any comprehension of the material read.
Whatever your thoughts or feelings are for speed reading in today's multitasking society, the ability to even increase reading by 50 to 60% of your current rate will significantly increase your productivity. Let's look at some available choices to help you in this endeavor.
The most streamlined and instant form of speed reading success is through speed reading intensive classes. These classes are typically held over a series of days. And in many cases, will easily double the average readers speed. One distinct disadvantage to these classes is typically. Once completed, a student's reading level will slowly evaporate to their previous level. Should you spend the time and money investing in such a class? In order to maintain your speed, you will need to practice the training that you have learned on a regular basis.
A low-cost low-tech approach is to purchase a speed reading book. It is often the case that the speed reading books or courses will come with audio as well as visual materials. There are distinct advantages to using a speed reading course. The most obvious advantage is your ability to learn at your own pace. Another advantage is that you will maintain your reading ability for significantly longer period of time than in an intensive training course. This is partially due to the fact that you are continuously reading throughout the course and often times you may go back and reread or review information to hone your skills.
The high-tech advantage is using a modern computer program to learn speed reading. This allows for the user to accurately test their speed reading skills. In general, it is believed that this is the most accurate and most efficient way to improve your reading skills. It is much easier to stay committed to the interactive programs, as well as completing practice and timing courses that are built in. It is unfortunate; however, that one severe industry problem with computer program courses is, they are expensive.
Regardless of your approach to increasing your reading speed you should pay particular attention to a course that will allow you to self evaluate your current rate of reading. It would also be wise to not opted for courses that make outlandish claims as to the amount of increased speed that may be achieved through their course. |
