Organizational Readiness and Effectiveness of Professional Development in Out-of-School Time Programs

• In Event: 35.079 - Sheraton Roundtable Session Five - Grand Centre
  In Roundtable Session: 35.079-2 - Cross-Sector Strategies for Out-of-School Time Learning

Abstract

Professional development focused on improving adult-child interactions is important for strengthening children’s experiences in and benefits from out-of-school time (OST) participation. However, availability and success of professional development in the OST context is variable, and the effectiveness of professional development may depend on organizational readiness. In a sample of 102 staff across 24 OST programs, we examined effectiveness of a professional development program based on three categories of readiness: motivation, general capacity, and innovation-specific capacity. We find that while staff may be motivated by a professional development program, organizational capacities may limit its effectiveness. Through this study, we aim to contribute to our understanding of successful implementation and sustainability of professional development in the OST context.

Authors

• Annie McNamara, University of Pittsburgh

• Thomas Akiva, University of Pittsburgh