The Study
In this article, University Distinguished Professor Yong Zhao, colleague Mark Girod (Western Oregon University), and then-doctoral student Joseph Martineau examine the KLICK! (Kids Learning in Computer Klubhouses), a federally funded after-school project, as a means for supporting positive, engaging, and innovative after-school activity for teens.

Findings
KLICK! was an after-school, technology-rich community learning center consortium designed to support teen growth and development using the latest in computer technology and resources. Supported by the U.S. Department of Education and the Kellogg Foundation, KLICK! served 10 middle schools and their communities in both and rural and urban areas throughout Michigan. Student involvement was about 200 across the 10 schools. Many students at risk of academic failure and with low self-perceptions became involved with the project. The researchers sought to determine whether participation in KLICK! helped engender more positive dispositions toward school. They also wanted to learn whether participation helped teens develop computer technology skills. The authors employed a quasi-experimental method, with a pre-test and post-test design using clubhouse participants as the treatment group and non-participating teens attending schools with access to clubhouses as the control population. The researchers found that KLICK! was most effective for students who initially valued school the least. “In other words,” the authors wrote, “KLICK! does seem to have important effects on these at-risk teens.” In terms of technology, the researchers found that data indicated that teens reporting lower GPAs gained more in self-reported experience using computing technology than higher GPA teens. Although the findings are tentative and replication and cross-validation is needed, the authors believe that after-school programs like KLICK! represent a positive alternative environment for youth that seems to build their confidence in, or perception of, the value of school.

What It Means to You
Does your school district offer students, especially those who value school the least, with after school opportunities? Do these offerings focus on computers and technology, and do they have an effect on students’ perceptions of the value of school?

For More Information
Girod, M., Martineau, J. & Zhao, Y. (2004). After-school computer clubhouses and at-risk teens. American Secondary Education, 32(3), 63-76.

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