An extended day program

• Main Authors: Ševkušić-Mandić Slavica G., Maksić Slavica B.
• Format: Article
• Language: srp
• Published: Institute for Educational Research, Belgrade 2002-01-01
• Series: Zbornik: Institut za Pedagoška Istraživanja
• Subjects: primary school; extended day program; creativity; life skills; socio-emotional development.
• Online Access: http://www.doiserbia.nb.rs/img/doi/0579-6431/2002/0579-64310204112S.pdf
• ISSN: 0579-6431; 1820-9270

The paper presents the results of a pilot project evaluation, carried out as an action investigation whose aim was to provide a better quality extended day for primary school students. The project included the training of teachers involved in extended day program, designing of special activities performed by teachers with children once a week as well as changes and equipping of premises where children stay. The aims of the program were conception and performance of activities in a less formal way than during regular instructional days, linking of learning at school and acquired knowledge to everyday experiences, and work on contents contributing to the development of child's interests and creativity. The program was accomplished in a Belgrade primary school during the 2001/2002 academic year, comprising students of 1st and 2nd grades (N=77). The effects of the program were monitored throughout the academic year (observation and teachers' reports on accomplished workshops) and at the end of the academic year (teachers and students' opinions of the program, academic achievement and creativity of students attending the extended day program compared with students not attending it). Findings about positive effects of the program on students' broadening of interests and willingness to express themselves creatively, indicate unequivocally that there is a need for developing special extended day programs. The extended day program is an opportunity for school to exert greater educational influence that has yet to be tapped.