Assessment Tips for Full-Time Learning Programs

Here is a short tip list for assessing program and student achievements.

• Assess students based on rubrics rather than relying solely on grades. Student development is often more important than the final outcome.
• Track student's progress throughout the course of the program through rubrics, or predefined criteria, often based on academic standards and 21st century learning skills.
• Define clear program goals. Ask students to complete a pre-screening questionnaire, including what they expect to achieve from the project. Also, ask questions relating to student's current knowledge level. This helps in creating rubrics and tracking progress.
• Collect data and evaluations throughout the program. Train teachers and mentors about the importance of rubrics and the assessment process. Encourage routine progress reports and student interviews, creating open communication throughout the program.
• Assess the program in part through student progress, using rubrics for guidance. What skills were improved upon? What did the final project look like? How did students exceed the teachers and mentors' expectations?
• Use academic records and comparison studies. For example, did student attendance improve? What about grades and standardized test scores? How do these results compare to students who didn't participate in the program?

Links to Outside Organizations and Resources

Assessment Tools

Learn about the assessment tools used nationally by after-school programs.

• High/Scope Monitoring and Planning Tools
• Youth Services Tracking Application

State and International Standards and Benchmarks

Locate and review the standards for your state and subject.

• Mid-Continental Research for Education and Standards
• Education World State Standards
• National Education Technology Standards
• School Data Direct National Database
• Partnership for 21st Century Skills
• Program for International Student Assessment (PISA)