Report Guides Policymakers on Expanded Learning Opportunities

The American Youth Policy Forum has published Learning Around the Clock: Benefits of Expanded Learning Opportunities for Older Youth, with the complete report online at www.aypf.org/publications. The publication provides evidence that expanded learning opportunities (ELOs) improve academic performance, college and career preparation, social and emotional development, and health and wellness for youth. Expanded learning opportunities encompass a range of programs and activities available to young people that occur beyond regular school hours and include traditional after-school activities with an academic focus, but also activities such as internships with employers, independent study in alternative settings, classes on college campuses for high school students, and wraparound support services.

This report summarizes 22 evaluations of high-quality ELOs (including evaluations of TASC programs by Policy Studies Associates) to give policymakers and practitioners a quick understanding of the research findings on effective programs, along with a description of why these programs work. The report describes key program elements that lead to successful outcomes, such as experiential learning, high-quality staff with ongoing professional development, student-centered programming, and supportive adult and peer-to-peer relations. The report also provides recommendations for policymakers to support ELOs by developing shared accountability systems; supporting partnerships and collaboration across systems; focusing on quality by building capacity; ensuring equity and access for youth; improving data collection, evaluation, and research; and ensuring the sustainability of ELOs.

• The American Youth Policy Forum Web site