FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

General FAQs are listed below. FAQs are also categorized for your convenience:

What is CLaRI?

CLaRI stands for Center for Literacy and Reading Instruction. CLaRI is located on the North Campus of the University at Buffalo/SUNY.

CLaRI was established in 1963.

What does CLaRI do?

CLaRI is a center that focuses on research, teaching and professional development, and services for children.

  • Research
  • Teaching and Graduate Programs
  • Services for children

What is CLaRI's purpose?

Our purpose is to help children who are struggling to read and write to become successful. Success includes a focus on traditional skills and strategies, but also on new technologies and digital literacies. Success also includes fostering positive stances toward reading and writing. We are committed to education for all children from all socioeconomic, linguistic, cultural, religious, racial, and ethnic backgrounds.

What is the difference between the Reading Clinic at UB and the Center for Literacy and Reading Instruction (CLaRI)?

The Center for Literacy and Reading Instruction encompasses a broader focus on research, professional development and teaching, and services for children than a traditional reading clinic. There are numerous research and professional development projects being carried out by literacy faculty members that are affiliated with and supported by CLaRI. Some of these projects are carried out on the UB campus in Baldy Hall, often referred to as the reading clinic. CLaRI on the UB campus provides help for struggling readers and writers guidance for parents, education for literacy teachers, and for researchers. Some of these same services are also provided off-site in surrounding school districts or other locations.

If my child is struggling with reading or writing, can s/he get help from CLaRI?

Yes, depending on your child's age and needs, we may be able to help. You can find more information about the services that CLaRI provides under links for parents.

What types of professional development do you offer for teachers?

We offer master's degree and Ph.D. degree programs in addition to a post-master's certificate program. Master's degrees include a Literacy Specialist Ed.M. and Childhood Ed.M. with Literacy Emphasis. We also offer a doctoral program in literacy. There are also assorted CLaRI projects where literacy faculty are working with in-service and pre-service teachers on issues related to professional development. These professional development opportunities are situated within larger research projects.