Does Service-Learning Increase Student Learning?: A Meta-Analysis

Research studies reflect mixed results on whether or not service-learning increases student learning outcomes. The current study seeks to reconcile these findings by extending a meta-analysis conducted by Novak, Markey, and Allen (2007) in which these authors examined service-learning and student learning outcomes. In the current study, 11 research studies satisfying particular criteria were included. Results suggest that service-learning does in fact increase student learning (d = .332). Results from moderator analyses suggest that service-learning has a positive influence on student learning outcomes irrespective of the way learning was measured.