Can a self-assessment and coaching intervention be implemented with fidelity, assessed with valid and reliable measures of setting-level processes, and show promise to improve after-school programs? In 2005 and 2006, Wisconsin developed and then piloted a self-assessment process based on the Continuous Improvement Process for After-School Programs (CIPAS) instrument originally developed by the National Community Education Association. In this small-scale group-level study, the researchers will develop and pilot test the use of a coaching intervention that can accompany CIPAS. Twelve after-school programs in Wisconsin, in rural and urban settings and serving children ages 6 to 13 (in various configurations), will be selected after a screening for viability. All programs involved in the study will use CIPAS. Six programs will use only CIPAS, three will receive an additional coaching intervention, and three will receive an intensive coaching intervention. The researchers will look at whether it is possible to successfully implement the coaching intervention with CIPAS, and whether the intensive coaching component produces different results than the regular coaching intervention.
Can a self-assessment and coaching intervention be implemented with fidelity, assessed with valid and reliable measures of setting-level processes, and show promise to improve after-school programs?
