Technology-based Learning On At-risk High School Students: An Evaluation Of The Martin Luther King Jr. Community Technology Center After-school Program

Abstract

Objective. High school students across North Texas are failing to meet the academic standards of the federal No Child Left Behind Act. In response, after-school programs have been implemented to support cognitive and communal development of these at-risk youth. Technology can play a role in after-school by expanding the boundaries of the traditional classroom. This study evaluates the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Technology Center (MLK CTC) After-School Program between August 2006 and July 2007.

Methods. Evaluation outcomes are based on the MLK CTC program objectives. The evaluation looks also at educational gains within the program and employs a paired samples t-test and tests of ANOVA. Qualitative analysis involved interviews and observation of program activities.

Results. Findings indicate a positive significance between program participation and educational gains.

Discussion. Implications included: (1) participant recruitment and retention; (2) collaboration with parents, staff, and the community; and (3) necessary and adequate resources.