THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES IN FULL-TIME PUBLIC HIGH SCHOOLS

Abstract

This study investigated how extracurricular activities contributed to the development of students in full-time public high schools. The objective was to understand the effects of these practices on the development of cognitive, socioemotional, and life skills, as well as their relationship with student retention and belonging in the school environment. The research was conducted through a literature review, with a qualitative approach, using scientific articles, book chapters, and papers published between 2020 and 2025 as sources. The results indicated that extracurricular activities, when integrated into the school's pedagogical project and developed in a participatory manner, contributed to student engagement, improved academic performance, strengthened self-esteem, and recognition of cultural identities. It was also observed that democratic management was an important element in this process, fostering active listening and the collective development of proposals. Despite the progress, the research highlighted challenges such as a lack of resources, institutional resistance, and the need for teacher training. The conclusion was that such practices played a significant role in the comprehensive development of students, but their effectiveness depends on structural and pedagogical conditions. It was recommended that studies be expanded to analyze the realities of schools and consider direct contact with their participants.