Overview

Site Visits

• Ethnographic Observations: Trained members of the research team visited each club to conduct ethnographic observations, typically two times a week, beginning in September and continuing through the end of the school year in June. Observers recorded detailed field notes after each visit (see Field Note Template later in this appendix). Each field note included the team member’s observations and reflections as well as an account of any conversations with youth or staff. The principal investigator (Hirsch) reviewed the field notes on an ongoing basis. Developments or issues that might benefit from additional investigation were highlighted for follow-up during subsequent visits to the club.

• Social Climate Ratings: Following each visit to a club, the research team member involved completed ratings of the social climate of the club on several different dimensions, such as cooperation and conflict among staff and youth enjoyment and participation in decision making (see Field Note Template later in this appendix).

All Youth Attending Each Center

• Youth Background Questionnaire: This questionnaire was completed at the start of the year by all youth at each of the clubs who were ten years of age or older. The survey included questions that asked youth for basic demographic information, their levels and history of participation in the club, how safe they felt in their neighborhoods, and whether they experienced the club setting as a “second home.” Each youth also was asked on the survey to identify the staff person at the center with whom he or she had the closest relationship.