The first Italian scientific study on the effectiveness of summer learning programs has been carried out by FBK-IRVAPP
FBK-IRVAPP conducted the first scientific investigation in Italy into the effectiveness of summer learning programs for students in elementary and middle schools.
The study, titled “Starting the School Year on the Right Foot: Effects of a Summer Learning Program Targeting Vulnerable Students in Italy“, was authored by Davide Azzolini, Martina Bazzoli, Sergiu Burlacu, and Enrico Rettore. It focused specifically on the outcomes of the Educational Archipelago project, implemented in several Italian cities by Save the Children and the Agnelli Foundation to combat summer learning loss in children.
The study found positive effects on learning outcomes in both mathematics and Italian among students who participated in the summer program. These effects were even more pronounced among younger children (elementary schoolers) and students with special educational needs.