Happier kids get better test results

Hard work pays off but keeping students in a positive state of mind pays off too, both in the present and down the track.

In a study of 3,400 students by The Australian National University (ANU) and Gradient Institute, researchers found that self-reported levels of depression had a large, negative effect on their NAPLAN results months later.  

The study underlined that subjective well-being has a significant impact on academic performance.

"This research has a far more wide-reaching effect than just NAPLAN tests, it shapes the way education professionals should approach teaching as a whole,” study author Dr Diana Cardenas said. 

“Our findings show that teaching for test scores isn’t enough. There is great benefit when schools care about the head and the heart of their students. 

“Subjective well-being – how a person perceives their emotions and experiences – is an under-explored area in education.”

According to the researchers, previous studies have focused on depression and anxiety from a medical viewpoint, excluding the experience of the vast majority of students who may experience low well-being, but lack a professional diagnosis.  

“Quantifying these relationships taking many other factors into account has been a major challenge for researchers but now there is clear evidence,” study co-author Professor Kate Reynolds said. 

The research found that students who self-report lower well-being perform worse academically.

Dr Cardenas and her team, which includes members of the Gradient Institute and education policymakers, aim to use this research to shape the education system in Australia. 

“Schools serve as a key institution for building positive futures and for liaison between families and community services, which can together address youth depression and well-being,” she said. 

"Better understanding the relationship between well-being and learning performance will help prioritise resources and new innovations to ensure the best outcomes for children and youth and ultimately Australia's future success."

This study has been published in Scientific Reports.

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