Our Proven Results
Our confidence in the Fast ForWord program comes from independent research, feedback from our families, and our own pre- and post-testing.
Results: #1. Ranking by the US Govt. & Others
Fast ForWord results have been validated in 300+ studies and certifications by various organizations.
The What Works Clearinghouse (WWC) Standard
The WWC provides strict, evidence-based reviews of educational programs for the US government. For an intervention to meet their rigorous standards, it must demonstrate efficacy in well-designed, randomized controlled trials.
- Fast ForWord has 21 studies that meet WWC Evidence Standards—the most of any reading intervention evaluated.
- It is the only program rated by the WWC to show positive effectiveness across all measured categories: Alphabetics & Decoding, Reading Fluency, Reading Comprehension, and English Language Development (Grades K-10).
Independent State & District Reviews
- The Nevada DOE Study: In an independent, two-year state review of 22 competing reading programs, Fast ForWord was named the most effective and officially designated a “High-Gain Program.”
- Longitudinal Evidence: Independent reviews by states such as Iowa and Texas confirm that accelerated reading gains continue after program completion. More state info here.
30+ Years of Scrutiny
Because the founders of Fast ForWord have such a high profile in scientific circles, Fast ForWord has attracted an unusual amount of scrutiny, all of which has validated its scientific underpinnings.
- fMRIs Pre- and Post-Fast ForWord: Brain imaging studies at Stanford and Harvard show new neural activity in areas responsible for language and processing.
- Nobel-Laureate-Level Neuroscientists (Kavii Prize in Neuroscience): Four world-leading researchers spent 30 years designing and testing this software. It is based on robust science.
More details on Fast ForWord research evidence here.
Here is a quick video on the two-year Nevada reading program study. Fast ForWord was the most effective of 22 reading programs tested. For more information: Nevada DOE: Fast ForWord is a “High-Gain Program.”
“We enrolled our three boys, aged 14, 12, and 6, in this program. It has worked wonders for our boys. Our kids used to dislike reading and love math. They are three grades ahead in math but barely at grade level for reading. After completing this program, the 14- and 12-year-olds are now above grade level and, completing their homework and studying very efficiently. We couldn’t be happier. The support staff were amazing. Thank you so much! You’ve supported us in a tremendous way.”
“Perhaps the strongest argument for trying Fast ForWord is the behavior of Gemm Learning staff over the years. Based on the amazing stories they hear from clients, they can’t wait for their own children to turn 5 so they can go on the program!”
Results #2. Our Internal Tracking – Consistent Gains
We measure success in two distinct phases: gains during the program, and momentum afterward.
Our Average Internal Results
- 2+ grade levels of reading gain in 6-7 months (average treatment term)
Parent Report Widespread Gains
While the main target is reading, because the program boosts reading by first building learning fundamentals, parents report a wide range of improvements:
- Reading – more willing to read, reads for longer periods
- Focus & attention, both at school and at home
- Homework efficiency (takes less time with less stress)
- More organized and manages assignment deadlines better
- Confidence, self-esteem and more positive attitude to learning
These gains typically begin in the first 2-3 months of the program and continue beyond program completion. Years later, clients have a hard time remembering how much trouble their child was having prior to Gemm Learning.
Results #3. Client Feedback
Gemm Learning has collected hundreds of testimonials over the years from children, teens, and adults with a wide range of difficulties or formal diagnoses.
For some clients, we have conducted interviews, resulting in these case studies. Shorter feedback on our testimonials page.
Will It Work for My Child?
Every child’s cognitive profile is unique. While Fast ForWord is an incredibly powerful tool, its success depends on identifying the specific cognitive gaps your child faces.
Wondering if Fast ForWord is the right fit for your child’s specific needs? Let’s find out together.
Gemm Learning Case Studies
Real stories, compelling results. Read more case studies here
ADHDDyslexia
Sam
Age: 11
Location: Alberta
Diagnoses: ADHD, Dyslexia
Results
Samuel struggled with dyslexia and ADHD. He felt embarrassed reading to the class, and so he avoided participating. Today, Samuel is reading with confidence and enjoyment, and his social life is much fuller.
ADHDDyslexia
Antonio
Age: 7
Location: Maryland
Diagnosis: ADHD, Dyslexia
Results
Antonio made enough progress to avoid summer school. His reading has improved significantly, and his test results meet the school’s expectations.
Appendix: How We Track Results
We have two goals for every student:
- A measurable boost on the program and
- Acceleration in the years following the program
Parent Pre- and Post- Behavioral Surveys
Parents complete a behavioral survey to start. This survey and our starting consults provide a reference point for future conversations.
While it’s not that scientific, the changes parents report are often vivid – “used to resist reading every night, now reads willingly,” “takes far less time over homework.” There are no metrics here, but the changes are consistent with expectations from the science. Read more here.
Our RPI – Internal Reading Tests
Gemm Learning uses the RPI (Reading Progress Indicator), an assessment that aligns with the Woodcock-Johnson Achievement Test. It’s about a 30-minute test. measuring phonemic awareness, vocabulary, decoding fluency, and comprehension.
Students taking post-tests will see different versions, aligned in the same way.
Why Learning Momentum Continues After Gemm
The longitudinal research on Fast ForWord that shows continuing gains is not surprising. The development of previously held-back higher-level skills, such as executive function, is the main driver of learning acceleration after program completion.
Another source of post-program growth is the lasting impact of the confidence boost that comes from learning gains after Gemm Learning. Leaning into learning with more confidence and less fear of failure creates a virtuous cycle of improvement.
“When I received a totally different report card and heard the teachers telling us how well she is doing in class, I kept thinking: Are they talking about my kid? She seems so happy and more secure in school.”
“She has just continued to do an amazing job. We’re so thankful for the program. It has truly changed our lives. She had all A’s and I believe one B for this last year in 5th grade. I can’t begin to thank you enough for giving us hope and a solution! I continue to tell everyone I can about the Gemm program!”





