A survey by the Synopsys Outreach Foundation was created to find out "the impact these projects make on the education of the student participants." It was conducted by WestEd.
Survey Conclusion
"While science projects may serve to inspire a number of future scientists, the survey indicates that hands-on learning can also significantly contribute to students gaining the 21st century skills they’ll need as they develop into the next generation of business owners, innovators, managers, and employees. As the foundation’s positioning line states, “Science projects. Prepare students for life.”"*
*WestEd. “New Research: Just What Are the Benefits of Science Projects?” California Classroom Science, California Science Teachers Association, 2 Oct. 2013, www.classroomscience.org/new-research-just-what-are-the-benefits-of-science-projects.