Using the Classroom Assessment Scoring System in a Statewide Evaluation of 21st Century Community Learning Center After-School Programs (Poster 30)

• In Event: AERA Poster Session 1
  In Poster Session: Research on the Complexity of Learning Environments (San Diego)

Abstract

To evaluate staff-child interactions in 21st Century Community Learning Centers, the Classroom Assessment Scoring System (CLASS) was used in observations of 25 sites across one midwestern state. 21st CCLCs are federally funded afterschool programs particularly for students who attend high-poverty and low-performing schools. Results showed that use of the CLASS in these learning environments was feasible with minor adaptations, and that the programs provided emotional support and classroom organization at high levels, comparable to previous studies of regular school classrooms. Levels of instructional support, including concept development, quality of feedback, and language modeling, were weak and slightly lower than those found in regular classrooms, although sessions focused on science were significantly higher. Results will be used to focus staff training.

Authors

• Joel M. Hektner, North Dakota State University

• Shawn L Carlson, Purdue University

• Vimbayi Chinopfukutwa, College of Saint Benedict