Using Amira to Enhance Literacy Outcomes in North Dakota

This technical report evaluates the impact of the Amira Tutor, an AI-powered literacy assessment and tutoring platform, on student performance in the North Dakota State Assessment (NDSA) for English Language Arts (ELA). The study analyzes data from 27 school districts during the 2023-24 school year, focusing on third to fifth grade students. It employs hierarchical linear models to assess the relationship between Amira usage and NDSA ELA scores. Results indicate that higher engagement with Amira correlates with improved ELA scores, particularly for third and fourth graders. For instance, third graders in the highest usage quartile scored 15 points higher than those in the lowest quartile. The report also discusses the methodology, including the demographic characteristics of the sample and the assessment measures used. Overall, the findings support the effectiveness of AI-driven literacy interventions in enhancing educational outcomes and highlight the importance of personalized reading practice.