Innovative Learning Solutions

New Publication:  Learning Around the Clock: The Benefits of Expanded Learning Opportunities for Older Youth <http://www.aypf.org/documents/LearningAroundtheClockBenefitsofExpandedLearningOpportunitiesforOlderYouth.htm>
We are pleased to announce the release of a  new AYPF publication, Learning Around the Clock:  Benefits of Expanded Learning Opportunities for Older Youth, which profiles 22 programs that provide quality expanded learning opportunities (ELOs) for older youth. This publication is currently available on our website at www.aypf.org/publications <http://www.aypf.org/publications> .
 
Learning Around the Clock: Benefits of Expanded Learning Opportunities for Older Youth provides evidence that 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 afterschool 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 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 complete report is available online at www.aypf.org/publications <http://www.aypf.org/publications> .  To order a hard copy of Learning Around the Clock:  Benefits of Expanded Learning Opportunities for Older Youth, please contact AYPF at 202-775-9731 or email aypf@aypf.org.

Funded by the C.S. Mott Foundation