NCSL & Harvard Family Research Project Brief Series: ELO Research, Policy, & Practice / Publications Series / Publications & Resources / HFRP

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Publications & Resources

This series by the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) and Harvard Family Research Project addresses topics in expanded learning opportunities (ELOs). This series aims to highlight research evidence on ELO best practices and effects on youth and discuss the policy implications related to this research.

What are expanded learning opportunities?
Expanded learning opportunities offer structured learning environments outside the traditional school day: before and after school; in summer; and through extended-day, -week, or -year programs. ELOs provide a range of enrichment and learning activities in various subjects including arts; civic engagement; and science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). High-quality ELOs often engage participants through innovative learning methods and complement what students learn during the school day. ELOs are part of a range of supports that can help youth succeed, along with positive influences from family, friends, school, and other enrichment activities.

ABOUT NCSL
The National Conference of State Legislatures is a bipartisan organization that serves the legislators and staffs of the nation's 50 states, its commonwealths, and territories. NCSL provides research, technical assistance, and opportunities for policymakers to exchange ideas on the most pressing state issues.

Helping Older Youth Succeed Through Expanded Learning Opportunities

In this brief we examine the benefits of ELOs for older youth as well as the policy implications of recent research. The brief provides examples of positive youth outcomes, common characteristics of high quality programs and initiatives, and policy recommendations based on these findings.

Families and Expanded Learning Opportunities: Working Together to Support Children’s Learning

In this brief, we explore the ways that families and expanded learning opportunities (ELOs) must work as equal partners in order to ensure ELOs are contributing to children's learning in meaningful ways.