Summary
A randomized control trial by Mathematica Policy Research and Stanford University found that compared to control schools,
- Students are more physically active at Playworks schools: There was a 43% difference in the amount of time students spent in vigorous activity during recess at Playworks schools compared to non Playworks schools.
- Playworks schools have less bullying: There was a 43% difference in teacher ratings of bullying and exclusionary behavior at Playworks schools compared to non Playworks schools.
- Teachers gain valuable time transitioning from recess to the classroom: Teachers in treatment schools reported taking significantly less time to transition from recess to learning activities than teachers in control schools, 34% fewer minutes.
- Students experience increased safety: There was a positive impact of Playworks on teachers’ reports of students using positive, encouraging language; teachers’ perceptions of the extent to which students felt safe at school; and teachers’ perceptions of the extent to which students felt safe and included during recess, a 20% difference in teacher ratings.
- Students are more attentive in class: Students at Playworks schools were more likely than students at control schools to report better behavior and attention in class after participating in sports, games and play.
Abstract
Teachers in treatment schools reported less bullying and exclusionary behavior than teachers in control schools. There was a positive impact of Playworks on teachers’ reports of students using positive, encouraging language; teachers’ perceptions of the extent to which students felt safe at school; and teachers’ perceptions of the extent to which students felt safe and included during recess. Teachers in treatment schools were less likely to report difficulties in transitioning to classroom learning activities after recess and reported taking significantly less time to transition from recess to learning activities than teachers in control schools. Treatment students were also more likely than control students to report better behavior and attention in class after sports, games and play.