Peer-reviewed research2017–2026 update
The Five Cs of Positive Youth Development in an Aotearoa/New Zealand Program Context
In a New Zealand positive youth development outdoor programme run in schools, all 5 Cs and a sixth C, contribution, were seen. Young people and adults valued different outcomes.
What's new
This qualitative study used the 5 Cs model of positive youth development to look at an outdoor education programme in New Zealand schools. It gathered the views of young people, parents and teachers. All 5 Cs were present, and the sixth C of contribution was also seen. Competence, confidence and connection came through strongly, and connection seemed especially important to young people. Adults focused more on future impacts, while young people named more immediate benefits.
Why it matters in Aotearoa
It tests a youth development framework from the United States in an Aotearoa programme context. It also shows that students, whānau and teachers may judge the value of the same EOTC programme in different ways.
Putting it into practice
When evaluating an outdoor programme, ask students and parents separately what they gained. Report both the immediate benefits young people name and the longer-term outcomes adults expect.
How strong is the evidence
This is a qualitative study of one programme. The abstract does not give sample sizes, so treat the findings as descriptive and not generalisable.
What to read
The full article, especially the findings comparing young people's and adults' views of programme outcomes.