Comparisons of eye movements before and after a speed-reading course.

BACKGROUND: The techniques of speed reading are widely used and generally accepted, but few studies have investigated whether- and how-speed reading actually improves reading ability in the typical reader.

METHODS: Using the Ober2, an infrared monitoring device that accurately tracks eye movements, we measured the eye movements of 59 students. The Ober2 calculates reading speed, number of fixations per 100 words, number of words seen in each fixation, number of regressions per 100 words, and duration of fixation. Comprehension was assessed with ten detailed true or false questions.

RESULTS: One group of the students (n = 25) participated in a speed reading class; the other group (n = 34) did not. After completion of the course, all 59 were re-measured on the Ober2. The speed-reading group improved significantly in five of the six aspects tested. Comprehension for the speed reading group showed an insignificant decrease.

CONCLUSIONS: We conclude that measurable changes in reading eye movements accompany successful completion of a speed-reading course.