Evaluation of a school-based positive youth development program in Hong Kong : views of junior secondary school students

By using the client satisfaction approach, the subjective views of 4,923 junior secondary school students from 16 schools participating in a positive youth development program were examined. A validated subjective outcome evaluation scale was used to assess participants’ views on the program, instructor, and benefits of the program. Result showed that the respondents generally held positive views of the program and implementers, and they also perceived the program to be able to promote their psychosocial competencies and holistic development in different areas. Although there was no grade difference among students on their perception toward the program, instructor, and benefits of the program, students participating in programs with more coverage of the positive youth development constructs and with greater program adherence displayed higher scores in subjective outcome evaluation ratings.