Informal science is a burgeoning field that operates across a broad range of venues and envisages learning outcomes for individuals, schools, families, and society. The evidence base that describes informal science, its promise, and effects is informed by a range of disciplines and perspectives, including field-based research, visitor studies, and…

This mixed-methods study combined the use of qualitative, comparative case study methods with other data analysis procedures to investigate an afterschool enriched reading program for academically gifted students who had also been identified as talented readers. The Schoolwide Enrichment Model-Reading Framework (SEM-R) was used to provide…

The review of current research presented here describes literature dealing either directly or indirectly with school-age latchkey children. Implications of this research are suggested as they relate to the following questions: Are latchkey children at risk? If so, at how much risk and in which areas? Are there factors that mitigate or lead to…

THIS STUDY IS A REVIEW OF THE PRACTICES OF NINE REPRESENTATIVE SCHOOL DISTRICTS WHICH HAVE EXTENDED SCHOOL DAY PROGRAMS. IT ALSO REVIEWS THE PRACTICES OF FACILITY UTILIZATION BEYOND THE STANDARD SCHOOL SCHEDULE BY SCHOOL GROUPS AND BY NON-SCHOOL GROUPS. IT PRESENTS THE CONCEPTS OF THE EXTENDED SCHOOL DAY, WEEK, AND YEAR, AND THE PURPOSES FOR THE…

Reviews several voluntary extended school day programs for elementary school children. (JB)

Children left alone to take care of themselves before and after school are called children in "self-care." Solutions to problems occurring in this situation are discussed, including steps that parent-teacher associations and schools can take. (CB)

This double issue of "The Evaluation Exchange" focuses on creating and evaluating connections between out-of-school time (OST) programs and the other settings in which children and youth live, learn, and play. One goal of this issue is to highlight promising evaluation approaches within the OST arena and build the knowledge base and agenda for new…

A growing evidence base suggests that participation in out-of-school time (OST) programs can make a positive difference in the lives of young people. Researchers and practitioners assert that high quality, organized OST activities have the potential to support and promote youth development because they:(1) situate youth in safe environments; (2)…

Investigated the relationship between involvement in an after-school adapted sports program and identity formation among adolescents with physical disabilities. Participant interviews indicated that participation provided most adolescents with a heightened sense of competence and opportunities to express their true selves. It also led to decreased…

There is growing consensus that after school programs are needed to serve children of all ages. Parks and recreation departments need to recognize societal expectations and the forces driving the need for after school programs if they are to become significant players in the after school program movement. A sidebar discusses how to utilize…

A collaborative initiative to help elementary children succeed by providing them with a high-quality, enriching after-school experience was based on principles of developmentally appropriate environment, child centeredness, computer technology, and parent involvement. Preliminary evidence indicates that the program had positive effects on reading…

Preparing youth for success in tomorrow's workforce is of increasing concern to American schools, communities, policymakers and businesses. After-school programs are uniquely situated to help youth develop the skills needed in the 21st Century workplace. The after-school setting provides additional time for learning, and allows for engaging…

This Research Update synthesizes findings from the profiles of 15 research and evaluation reports added to the Out-of-School Time Program Research and Evaluation Database in December 2006. It highlights strategies for assessing program processes as well as key outcomes and features of programs that promote positive outcomes. The Harvard Family…

This report addresses how the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program can be an important source of funding for maintaining, improving, and expanding out-of-school time initiatives. The report is designed to help policymakers and program developers understand the opportunities and challenges of effectively using TANF funding to…

This 2-year study assessed program-level differences in after-school program (ASP) engagement in relation to child competencies (effectance motivation, social competence, school grades) and program quality and content. Participants were 141 children (M age = 8.4 years) who attended 9 ASPs in an urban, disadvantaged city in the United States.…