Out-of-school time (OST) programs have taken on a new importance in recent years because of changes in society. This paper examines OST programming and suggests reasons and mechanisms for integrating outcomes and research into program design. It explains and promotes the integration of outcomes and research into program development, provides examples of research-based best practices, and links specific best practices to priority student outcomes and explains how these can be used in program design. Based on a review of the literature, the paper presents the following findings: (1) It is important to identify the priority outcomes before designing or enhancing OST programs, and it is equally important to have sound reasons for selecting these outcomes; (2) research-based strategies can substantially contribute to program quality; (3) whether a specific program framework or customized set of activities, research-based best practices can help shape, refine, and authenticate quality program design; and (4) intentional combinations of proven practices can produce a variety of specific results. To help contribute to the research, the paper suggests the following: Engage professionals; collect basic data; identify what is to be measured; design a simple experiment; and share results. Appended is a list of recommended websites. (Contains endnotes and 35 references.) (WFA)
