About the Intervention
Citizen Schools Apprenticeships are 10-week, project-based learning experiences for middle school students delivered through extended learning time (ELT). Apprenticeships are co-taught by community volunteers (Citizen Teachers) with STEM-related backgrounds and AmeriCorps members (Teaching Fellows). Students participate in hands-on learning across diverse topics including STEM subjects like robotics, mock trials, poetry, dance, and documentary film-making. Students take four apprenticeships per year (two per semester), selecting from options presented at an Apprenticeship Fair. Each apprenticeship consists of approximately 10 90-minute sessions and culminates in a WOW! showcase where students demonstrate their learning. The program targets middle school students in schools with below-average academic achievement, providing exposure to STEM content and professional role models to increase student engagement and interest in STEM subjects.
Statistical Findings
No effect: on 21st Century Skills
No effect: on STEM interest
No effect: on math achievement overall
Positive effect: on math achievement for 6th grade students
Positive effect: on math achievement for male students
More Intervention Details
Focus Areas
Economically Disadvantaged, Social-Emotional LearningPrograms & Services
Extended Day / Child Care ServicesDelivery Methods
Face-to-FaceDisability Support
N/ATarget Groups
Student(s)Citation
Fountain, A. R., Gamse, B. & Velez, M. (2018). Closing Inspiration and Achievement Gaps in STEM with Volunteer-Led Apprenticeships (ED617139). ERIC. https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED617139.pdf.
Study Demographics
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Participant Gender
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Other Participant Characteristics
Geographical Setting
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