What is Youth Program Quality Intervention?

Read more about the YPQI on The Forum for Youth Investment website: https://forumfyi.org/weikartcenter/ypqi/

The Weikart Center’s signature Youth Program Quality Intervention (YPQI) harnesses the power of research evidence and the experience of practitioners to improve the quality of youth experiences in OST programming from the ground up. Youth leaders in nearly every state have used the YPQI to improve the quality of youth experiences in OST programming. The YPQI uses evidence-based materials and practices that can be customized and applied in any program type, size, or setting. The YPQI is at the vanguard of the movement toward higher levels of understanding, expectation, & action around the quality of experiences available to young people in OST settings. In includes four key components:

• Assessment via the Program Quality Assessment (PQA)

• Using assessment results to engage in Planning with Data to support improvement efforts

• Providing targeted trainings in Youth Work Methods related to areas identified for improvement

• Support for leaders to engage in targeted Quality Coaching at the point of service
  

By using the YPQA, we can gain valuable insights into the quality of their programs, identify areas for growth, and make informed decisions to enhance the positive impact on youth participants. This is how we do it:

1. Conduct Observations: Assign trained observers who are knowledgeable about Jiu-Jitsu and the program's objectives. They should conduct observations during program sessions and assess various aspects such as program design, staff-youth interactions, safety protocols, and the overall environment.

2. Collect Additional Data: In addition to observations, gather data through interviews with program staff and participants. Ask about their experiences, satisfaction levels, and perceptions of the program. This qualitative information can provide valuable insights into program quality.

3. Analyze and Interpret Results: Collect all the data and analyze the findings. Compare the observed practices and feedback against the quality indicators outlined in the YPQA. Identify strengths and areas for improvement in program delivery, staff interactions, participant engagement, safety measures, and other relevant dimensions.

4. Provide Feedback and Develop Action Plans: Share the assessment results with program staff and stakeholders. Discuss the strengths and areas for improvement identified through the assessment. Collaboratively develop action plans to address the identified areas and enhance program quality. These plans may include staff training, curriculum adjustments, or changes to policies and procedures.

5. Monitor Progress and Make Adjustments: Regularly monitor the implementation of the action plans and assess progress. Continuously use the YPQA as a tool to evaluate program quality and make adjustments as needed. Monitor outcomes and collect ongoing feedback from staff and participants to ensure the effectiveness of the improvement efforts.

Read more about the YPQI on The Forum for Youth Investment website: https://forumfyi.org/weikartcenter/ypqi/