A multiple session format with refresher sessions in successive years has proven to be the best method to alter the behavior and beliefs of students. The refresher sessions in successive years seem to be a significant part of a successful program. Research has also shown that effective school alcohol programs use a combination of several concept strategies. Project SAVE incorporates these concepts and strategies in the programs for school aged children. Preliminary results from the testing shows that Project SAVE has resulted in a significant increase in knowledge about alcohol and the effects of underage drinking.
Tests also show a significant change in attitude concerning underage drinking.
The long term effects of the program have not yet been determined. For students to learn, they must be actively involved in learning. Project SAVE instructors are trained to solicit maximum student involvement in each learning activity. Students learn appropriate skills by making lists of reasons not to drink illegally and why people drink, performing realistic peer pressure situations, discussing behaviors from videos, writing answers to tough situational problems, and suggesting alternate behavior to illegal drinking. The Project SAVE program provides opportunities for participants to observe positive role models.