Engaged for Success: Service-Learning as a Tool for High School Dropout Prevention

This presentation is associated with the research report Engaged for Success: Service-Learning as a Tool for High School Dropout Prevention. The report presents original and secondary research that shows the ability of service-learning to address some of the principle causes of dropping out. It highlights findings from a nationally representative survey of 807 high school students, including 151 at-risk students, who share their views of service-learning. The report also examines the results of focus groups of service-learning teachers who provide specific examples of the ways in which service-learning has affected their students, as well as interviews with current students who offer their perspectives on service-learning programs. And the report draws upon research from a comprehensive national literature review, which found that service-learning improves almost every aspect of education that has an effect on graduation rates. Service-learning holds the potential to address each of the underlying causes of low graduation rates, while incorporating the strategies most recommended for preventing students from dropping out.