Sources of Variability in Summer Learning in New Zealand

• In Event: Roundtable Session 36
  In Roundtable Session: International Perspectives on Education Policy and Inequality

Abstract

The summer learning effect has been identified as a major barrier in creating equitable schooling outcomes in the US. Less is known about the nature of the effect in other communities and subject domains. This research draws on a large sample (N = 4,591) to examine the effect in a comparatively under-researched domain – writing – and in a different community with a shorter summer break. Results indicated a considerable summer loss among New Zealand students despite the shorter break; students from minority ethnic groups mostly attending low income schools showed the greatest summer drops. The findings show that to create more equitable outcomes, we need to focus on holistic interventions targeting the causes of the differential effects of summer.

Authors

• Frauke Meyer, The University of Auckland

• Esther Yao, The University of Auckland

• Kane Meissel, The University of Auckland