What Works in Values Education

Values education (alternatively, moral education, character education) is the attempt, within schools, to craft pedagogies and supportive structures to foster the development of positive, ethical, pro-social inclinations and competencies in youth, including around strengthening their academic focus and achievement. Recent research has uncovered evidence of effective practices that apply broadly to schools at different levels and varied contents. Reviews of the empirical research have allowed for the identification of effective practices, including interactional practices, professional development, parental involvement, role modeling, and service opportunities. This article reviews the existing research and presents such a set of research-based effective practices.