Program Planning and Evaluation for PYD Impact

This virtual course prepares educators to intentionally plan and evaluate positive youth development (PYD) programming as defined by the 4-H Thriving Model. It's recommended for all 4-H professionals with at least three years of relevant youth development experience who are interested in program evaluation related to PYD and the 4-H Thriving Model. 

The course offers two phases to deepen your learning journey. Phase One (Course Sessions) is included for all participants. It contains 20 hours of virtual learning, taking place over ten weeks. If you'd like to maximize the impact of your learning, consider adding on Phase Two (Learning Circles)! Below, you'll find more information about both phases to help you choose your ideal experience. 

Phase One is the learning portion of the course, where participants revisit the research base of the 4-H Thriving Model that informs everyday 4-H practice. They learn how to move from theory to action through intentional program planning, as well as increase their capacity for the evaluation of PYD as defined by the 4-H Thriving Model. Participants attend a 2-hour live session every other week. For each session topic, there are two identical options on different days to accommodate different schedules and availability. This allows participants to choose the time that best suits them each week. In between each topic, participants will engage with self-paced learning materials to prepare for and support their understanding during the live session.  

So, why add Phase Two? Learning the theory and research of positive youth development is only the beginning! In Phase Two, participants take part in learning circles designed to provide support and guidance in applying their learning to real-world practice. These small groups, consisting of eight participants each, meet with a learning circle facilitator across five sessions held every three weeks. Those who opt to participate in Phase Two will have their choice of three schedule options during the registration process. Because a learning circle is a small community that works together over time, participants must stay with the same learning circle group across all five sessions. If you can commit to attending and engaging in all five sessions, then Phase Two is right for you! Space for learning circles is limited, so be sure to register early to secure your spot.

4-H PYD Academy equips 4-H and other youth development professionals with the essential knowledge and skills to plan, implement, and evaluate high-quality youth development programs that help youth thrive. 4-H PYD Academy is an output of the 4-H PLWG Chartered Committee on Positive Youth Development. 4-H PYD Academy learning opportunities are convened and supported by National 4-H Council in collaboration with Extension 4-H professionals from across the country.