Citation

Armstrong T, Armstrong G. J. School Violence 2004; 3(4): 93-109.

Affiliation

Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology, Arizona State University West, PO Box 37100, Phoenix, AZ 85069-7100

Copyright

(Copyright © 2004, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1300/J202v03n04_07

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

To identify characteristics predicting the effective implementation of after-school programs, in-depth interviews were conducted at five sites randomly selected from a subset of 16 ACE after-school sites serving high risk youth in a southwestern city. Qualitative data from structured in-depth interviews, follow-up telephone conversations with personnel as well as researcher observations during site visits were synthesized. Data identified three constellations of characteristics associated with effective implementation: staffing, community and programmatic. Staffing characteristics included limited staff turnover and sufficient training. Community characteristics included cultural sensitivity and community integration. Programmatic characteristics included clearly defined program goals and specific program content. Researcher observations found outcomes assessment would also facilitate program implementation.