Introduction
In recent years, the importance of social and emotional learning (SEL) in schools has gained significant attention. The Promoting Alternative Thinking Strategies (PATHS) curriculum is one such intervention aimed at enhancing children's emotional and social skills. A recent study, "Cost-Effectiveness of a School-Based Social and Emotional Learning Intervention," provides valuable insights into the economic viability of implementing PATHS in schools.
Understanding the Study
The study conducted a cluster-randomised controlled trial in the Greater Manchester area, involving 45 schools and over 5,000 children. The objective was to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of the PATHS curriculum compared to usual practices. The trial measured health-related quality of life (HRQoL) using the Child Health Utility Nine-Dimension (CHU-9D) questionnaire, with costs assessed through micro-costing methods.
Key Findings
- The mean incremental cost of the PATHS curriculum was £32.01 per child.
- The mean incremental quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) were positive, indicating a small increase in HRQoL.
- Assuming a willingness-to-pay threshold of £20,000 per QALY, the probability of cost-effectiveness was 84%.
- The probability of cost-effectiveness dropped to 0% when including teacher salary costs in the analysis.
Implications for Practitioners
The findings suggest that PATHS has the potential to be cost-effective at standard UK willingness-to-pay thresholds. However, the sensitivity of these estimates to key assumptions, such as the inclusion of teacher salary costs, highlights the need for further research. Practitioners should consider these findings when advocating for SEL programs and seek additional data to support decision-making.
Encouraging Further Research
While the study provides promising results, the authors recommend further investigation to confirm the cost-effectiveness of PATHS in different contexts. Practitioners can contribute to this body of research by conducting localized evaluations and sharing findings with the broader educational community.
Conclusion
The PATHS curriculum shows potential as a cost-effective SEL intervention, but decision-makers should proceed with caution due to the sensitivity of cost-effectiveness estimates. By leveraging data-driven insights and continuing research efforts, educators can make informed decisions that benefit children's social and emotional development.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Cost-Effectiveness of a School-Based Social and Emotional Learning Intervention: Evidence from a Cluster-Randomised Controlled Trial of the Promoting Alternative Thinking Strategies Curriculum.
