Randomised Trial Evaluation of the In:tuition Programme
16 March 2015
Literature review of existing research
This randomised control trial examined the impact of the In:tuition alcohol education and life skills programme on primary and secondary students’ attitudes, knowledge and drinking behaviour. The research tracked students in intervention and control groups in primary school from the end of year 5 to the end of year 6, and in secondary school from the end of year 7 to the end of year 8. The methodology included a survey of students at two time points and process evaluation (telephone interviews, case study visits and a teacher survey) to explore programme implementation and any perceptions of impact in intervention schools.
Key Findings
Primary school trial
- The primary outcome was resistance skills (confidence to manage peer pressure) in 10 and 11 year-olds. There was no evidence of any impact.
- There was an indication of an effect of In:tuition on increased knowledge, but no evidence of impact on other secondary outcomes.
Secondary school trial
- The primary outcome was the proportion of students aged 12-13 that were drinking frequently. Overall, there was no significant effect on frequency of drinking.
- There was no evidence of impact on any secondary outcomes.
Process evaluation
- Perceived impacts of In:tuition on pupils included: increased knowledge of alcohol; development of skills to cope with potential social and emotional situations; and a change in projected future drinking.
- Teachers were positive about the programme content and teaching approaches but adapted it to take account of the time available and the needs/context of the school.
Related Titles
Randomised trial evaluation of the In:tuition programme , Effectiveness of school-based life-skills and alcohol education programmes