- Forty studies find positive effects of desegregation for black achievement.
- Twelve show a negative effect.
- The achievement gains are small, compared to the size of the Black-White achievement gap.
- The review discusses methodological issues in the research (ex. experiments are difficult to execute, voluntary plans create self-selection problem).
- The review identifies factors which influence the success of desegregation plans (region of the country, grade level at which desegregation first occurs, curriculum factors, and type of desegregation plan).
- Desegregation has more positive impacts the earlier it is implemented.
- Effects of desegregation for achievement have been inconsistent.
- The average gain in achievement on the studies for which the authors coded quantitative data is one-half a grade change in the first one or two years. Each desegregation case is different and identical results should not be expected.
- Desegregation has improved achievement for Black students by closing inadequate segregated schools.