A Literature Review Examining the Impact of School Retention on Middle School Student Academic Success
Graduation Date
Spring 2003
Document Type
Master's Thesis
Document Form
Degree Name
Master of Science
Program Name
Education
Program Director
Madalienne F. Peters, EdD
Abstract
This paper provides a literature review examining the impact of school retention in the United States, focusing specifically on the relationship of student retention and academic success of middle school students. The majority of previous research on retention, dating back decades, has not found retention effective as a strategy to improve academic performance. Overall, current literature reveals that retention is a complex issue, has some negative ramifications, and confirms previous research that retention still is not a proven effective agent of change for academic performance as designed for students who are retained. Implications for the future, including important support strategies for retainees, as well as alternatives to retention are explored.