| Session Title: Linking Smaller Learning Communities to Student Achievement and Related Outcomes Measures |
| Think Tank Session 725 to be held in Fairmont Suite on Saturday, November 10, 9:35 AM to 10:20 AM |
| Sponsored by the Pre-K - 12 Educational Evaluation TIG |
| Presenter(s): |
| Shana Pribesh, Old Dominion University, spribesh@odu.edu |
| Discussant(s): |
| Linda Bol, Old Dominion University, lbol@odu.edu |
| John Nunnery, Old Dominion University, jnunnery@odu.edu |
| Alexander Koutsares, Old Dominion University, akoutsares@odu.edu |
| Abstract: Creating smaller schools/learning communities (SLCs) have been advocated as a specific reform for improving high school student engagement and graduation rates (NRC, 2002). The linkages of smaller learning communities to student achievement have been found to be promising (Felner, Ginter, and Primavera, 1982; NRC, 2002). However, the research connecting the SLC structure with student performance is tenuous - mostly due to methodological issues. We propose a think tank to discuss strategies to evaluate the effect of smaller learning communities on student achievement. This think tank will use case studies to propose innovative, rigorous designs to yield more valid evaluation findings. In addition, we would identify other constructs (e.g., school climate, student self-concept and motivation) theoretically linked to achievement that could be employed as additional outcome measures. The think tank session will be useful for practitioners faced with evaluating smaller schools within schools in public school districts. |