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The Camp Quality Assessment (CQA) is an observational tool that
helps camps assess the types of interactions and experiences available in the
camp setting that contribute to positive youth development. The resulting quantitative
scores are documented with specific evidence gathered during the observation
period. The CQA is based on the High/Scope Youth Program Quality Assessment
(Youth PQA), which was scientifically validated in 2004 and continues to be
improved through its use in youth program networks across the United States.
Like the Youth PQA, the CQA is designed to support a robust assessment
process that can be used under a range of conditions and for a variety of purposes:
- The CQA can be used in a wide variety of day and residential camp
settings serving children 10 years old or older
- The CQA has valid application as:
(1) a self-assessment by internal staff teams,
(2) a monitoring and feedback tool for supervisory staff, and
(3) a quality metric for external evaluation and research
- The CQA can be used easily by administrative staff after a brief training
- Support services and trainings are being developed to help camp professionals
incorporate this tool into their improvement and evaluation plans.
The CQA consists of 3 forms:
- FORM A: Program offerings. This observational form is designed for
structured programs that youth attend for a set time with a set purpose while
at camp. These offerings may be referred to as programs, clubs, workshops,
classes, etc.
- FORM B: Informal climate. This observational form is designed to capture
youth experiences
in non-program offering times. Form B also includes an optional segment that
focuses on the camp's attempts to develop an affinity for nature component
in their programs for campers. Examples include meal times, transition times,
group time, etc.
- FORM C: Camp structure and administration. This form is intended
to capture how the camp's structure and administration support program
quality. This form is completed through an interview with the camp director
or other appropriate person.
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