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Why would I want to take a speed reading course?
U S 3531 Speed Reading and Comprehension is a pass/fail one hour course offered each half semester. This course can help in two ways. You practice 'speed reading' methods that help many people move more quickly through long reading passages. Learning to speed up as you read can help you get your assignments done on time. At the same time, each class includes a few mini-lessons on ways to improve your reading comprehension in general, since not all reading material lends itself to speed reading (a physics textbook, for example). If you are a very poor reader, this course may help you learn some strategies to help you improve (though some low readers don't make great leaps in speed-it may take you more time to make that kind of progress than a half semester class). If you are a good reader, you should see your reading speed double by the end of the class.
This class has no outside homework, and your goal is to improve on your own terms-you don't have to worry about meeting a specific reading speed or comparing your reading speed with others in the class. Passing the class is based on attendance and participation. If you aren't sure you will be able to attend regularly (or make up a few absences, if your instructor gives you that option), this class may not be right for you. It is relatively easy, but you have to go to class.
Some students preparing for the Reading Praxis test have found this class helpful, too.
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