The SoLD Alliance is a collaborative effort to combine findings from diverse areas of research, from neuroscience to human development, into an integrated science of learning and development. It includes experts from AIR, EducationCounsel, the Forum for Youth Investment, Learning Policy Institute, Populace, and Turnaround for Children.
Afterschool and Expanded Learning
How students spend time outside of the classroom—before and after school and during breaks and summer vacation—has a tremendous impact on what they achieve in school and in life. Quality expanded learning opportunities extend learning and positive youth development beyond the school bell and engage students who might otherwise be left behind. Our work in the afterschool and expanded learning field supports the creation, evaluation, improvement, and maintenance of high-quality afterschool and expanded learning programs in a variety of ways.
Our Work
AIR’s afterschool and expanded learning group works with education agencies, schools and districts, foundations, and other stakeholders to ensure young people’s educational experience fosters positive growth and development. In particular, the members of our team
- conduct rigorous research on afterschool program quality, youth engagement, and program impact;
- deliver professional development, consultation, training, and ongoing support via presentations, trainings and technical assistance, and through the broad dissemination of coaching models to help afterschool program leaders and staff create, improve, and maintain excellent programs;
- monitor and conduct multi-method evaluations at state and local levels to assess the quality and effectiveness of afterschool and expanded learning programs; and
- provide state and national leadership in promoting policies that will create broader access to and support for high-quality afterschool and expanded learning programs.
