Many educators have long believed that when words differ on only one sound, early readers can learn the rules of phonics by focusing on what is different between the words. Scientists at the University of Iowa are turning that thinking on its head. A recent study shows certain kinds of variation in words may help early readers learn better.

Iowa bested Northwestern in a contest to enroll the most volunteers to participate in research studies. The weeklong competition grew out of the schools’ desire to promote ResearchMatch, a federally funded initiative to create an online registry pairing volunteers with research studies.

FOUND magazine editor/publisher Davy Rothbart will read from his collection of essays, "My Heart Is An Idiot," at 7 p.m., Monday, Nov. 12, in a free reading at Prairie Lights Books in downtown Iowa City. The reading also will be streamed live on the University of Iowa Writing University website.

Most University of Iowa employees will see little difference in their benefits options this year. A few, however, will notice considerable changes—but they will add value.

A slim majority of Iowa voters are poised to vote to retain Justice David Wiggins on the State’s Supreme Court this Nov. 6, but with nearly one in five voters still undecided, the final outcome is still in question according to a University of Iowa Hawkeye Poll released today.

With the presidential election less than one week away, it’s still a close race in Iowa, a key swing state, according to a University of Iowa Hawkeye Poll released today.

Seven Russian educators visiting the University of Iowa campus are exploring best practices in student services and the vital role of extracurricular activities at the UI.

Iowa City and University of Iowa Police continue to search for the suspect responsible for two armed robberies reported within minutes of each other near the Gaslight Village, 422 Brown St., late Tuesday night.

Iowa Writers’ Workshop alumnus John Smolens will read from his new book, "Quarantine," at 7 p.m., Friday, Nov. 9, in a free reading at Prairie Lights Books in downtown Iowa City. The reading also will be streamed live on the University of Iowa Writing University website.

Adults age 45 and older with elevated triglycerides who have had a stroke, heart attack, chest pain, or heart surgery are invited to participate in a University of Iowa research study on preventing these conditions.

UI staff member Michelle Cohenour coordinates early intervention programs, reaches out to students who are identified as being at-risk for leaving the university, and serves as a point-person for faculty, staff, and family members who are concerned about a particular student.

Christine Rutledge, professor of viola in the University of Iowa School of Music, will present a free program, “Back to Bach,” at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 9, in Riverside Recital Hall on the UI campus. She will be joined by fellow School of Music faculty member Gregory Hand on harpsichord.