An Introduction to Scientifically-Based Research, the first in a three-course series on effective reading instruction, was designed to give background on Reading First as it applies to the No Child Left Behind federal legislation. The course discusses the research that supports scientifically-based research as it applies to phonetically-based instruction, assessment, and evaluation. The course explores myths and misconceptions concerning reading instruction and remediation. It also presents an evaluation checklist designed to assess the effectiveness of your current reading program. The goal of the course is to present you with research, trustworthy evidence, and background information that support the need for a reading program that is based on scientific research and proven methods. 3.0 CEUs