Evaluation of the project pATHS in mainland China : Findings based on student diaries

Abstract

Objectives: Based on 859 student diaries, the present study evaluated a positive youth development program entitled Tin Ka Ping (TKP) Positive Adolescent Training through Holistic Social programs (P.A.T.H.S.) project implemented in mainland China during the 2015-2016 academic year. Method: To understand the perceived effectiveness of the students, the study analyzed quantitative as well as qualitative data derived from the student diaries. Results: The students held very positive views toward the program and the implementers. The narratives of the students also showed that they perceived improvement in the intrapersonal, interpersonal, familial, and societal domains after joining the program. Conclusion: In conjunction with the subjective outcome evaluation findings, the present findings suggest that the TKP P.A.T.H.S. project is able to promote holistic development of secondary school students in mainland China.