Eric.ed.gov – Targeted School-Based Interventions Improve Achievement in Reading and Maths for At-Risk Students in Grades 7-12. Plain Language Summary. Education

This Campbell systematic review examines the effects of targeted school-based interventions on standardised tests in reading and maths. The review analyses evidence from 71 studies, 52 of which are randomised controlled trials. School-based interventions targeting students with, or at risk of, academic difficulties in Grades 7-12 have on average positive effects on standardised tests in reading and maths. The most effective interventions have the potential to considerably decrease the gap between at-risk and not-at-risk students. Effects vary substantially between interventions, however, and the evidence for using certain instructional methods or targeting certain domains is weaker. This review examines the effects of a broad range of school-based interventions targeting students with, or at risk of, academic difficulties on standardised tests in reading and maths. Included interventions changed instructional methods by, for example, using peer-assisted learning, introducing financial incentives, giving instruction in small groups, providing more progress monitoring, using computer-assisted instruction, and giving teachers access to subject-specific coaching.