Standardized Test Scores Improve with Service-Learning

Standardized tests are becoming increasingly popular in states across America, for example the Indiana Statewide Testing for Educational Progress-Plus (ISTEP+). Service-learning can help students improve their standardized test scores because it makes learning
interesting and real - in a word - exciting. Research has shown that involvement in quality service-learning projects makes students more engaged in the classroom, less likely to skip class, more apt to discuss school outside of the classroom, and understand the importance of hard work. In Paoli, Indiana, service-learning has been a part of the curriculum since 1994. This year, only four high school students failed one portion of the ISTEP. (author)