Educators Promote Woodshop

After years of cutting back, some educators are placing a new emphasis on woodworking, the Boston Globe reported. These educators are being supported by studies showing clear benefits for youth.

• Retention rates. A study by Calfornia’s Little Hoover Commission found that woodshop and vocational programs help engage students with different learning styles. According to The Boston Globe:

“(Shop students) stayed in school and graduated at (higher rates), and were more likely to pass the high school exit exam and pursue post-secondary education.”

• Helps teach other subjects. Shop class gives you more than a neat wooden object. APurdue University study concluded in 2009 that hands-on projects intended to solve problems were the best way to interest youths in engineering and technology from a young age.