The Accelerated Reader, or AR (Advantage Learning Systems, 1993), is a learning information system that enables freestanding computer-assisted assessment of student comprehension of “real” books. It facilitates

• more frequent and more detailed assessment in less time and with greater consistency
• formative feedback for the student
• student development of metacognitive awareness
• increased student motivation to read more, longer, and harder books
• formative feedback for the teacher
• class-wide diagnostic information, including alerts regarding students who are at risk
• teacher promotion and management of effective reading practice

The Accelerated Reader is a curriculum-based assessment tool that provides a summary and analysis of results to enable teachers to monitor both the quantity and quality of reading practice engaged in by their students. Students administer comprehension tests voluntarily themselves, and the system is intended specifically to have strong formative effects on subsequent learning.