The Effects of Dogs on Learning: A Meta-Analysis

• In Event: 52.078 - Recent Reviews in Education

Abstract

The use of dogs in schools is becoming more prevalent. The present meta-analysis was conducted to investigate the effects of dogs on learning with elementary and middle school students. Specifically, learning outcomes investigated include reading, social skills, emotional skills, cognitive skills and motor skills. After an extensive search for studies meeting specified inclusion criteria, data from 24 independent studies were extracted. Overall, results indicate that the inclusion of dogs in learning environments produced positive learning outcomes for students, with reading and social skills having the highest effect when dogs were included in learning environments. This meta-analysis provides further evidence for human-animal interactions, especially within educational settings.

Authors

• Katie Reilly, Washington State University - Pullman

• Olusola Olalekan Adesope, Washington State University