Evaluating the Implementation Quality of a Social and Emotional Learning Program: A Mixed Methods Approach

Area of Science:

• Educational Psychology
• Implementation Science

Background:

• School-based social and emotional learning (SEL) programs demonstrate efficacy for adolescents.
• Variability in program implementation quality can diminish positive effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine implementation quality variations in the MindOut SEL program.
• To identify factors contributing to implementation quality differences in schools.

Main Methods:

• Mixed methods approach utilizing quantitative and qualitative data from teachers and students.
• Implementation quality assessed across dosage, fidelity, delivery quality, and responsiveness.
• Schools categorized as high or low implementers based on quantitative scores.

Main Results:

• Significant variability in MindOut program implementation quality was observed within and between schools.
• Eight schools were identified as high implementers and eight as low implementers.
• Key influencing factors included program, participant, teacher, school context, and organizational capacity.

Conclusions:

• Understanding implementation quality is crucial for maximizing the impact of SEL programs.
• Identifying influencing factors can guide strategies to enhance program delivery and effectiveness in schools.