Abstract:

The Accelerated Learning Program (ALP) is an educational program which employs cutting-edge techniques to quicken learning for out-of-school children. Implemented by the United States Agency for International Development through the Education Development Center (USAID/EDC), the program improve access to education by giving 48,000 children between the ages of 8 and 15 the chance to complete primary education from 2017 to 2021. Under the "One School Approach," the Ministry of Education in Liberia conducts the ALP alongside regular schools to deal with the issues of overaged and out-of-school enrollments beginning 2021 to present. The Ministry carries this out through engaging teaching strategies, peer learning, visual aids, the program fosters learning. According to research, the ALP leads to better literacy and numeracy skills, improved retention rates, increased confidence, and hastens transfers to formal schooling. This initiative has effectively addressed the expectations and problems of children who are not in school in Liberia by offering flexible schedules to fit different educational needs and a welcoming atmosphere for learning. However, the program has limitations and barriers despite its many advantages. Concerns about sustainability, inadequate facilities, and limited funds are a few of these concerns. By examining the degree to which the project has influenced students’ academic performances and the role parents played, this study seeks to address these gaps and challenges. The study employed a mixed-method approach that combined qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis procedures. Using a quasi-experimental approach, the learning outcomes of the students who participated in the ALP were compared to those students who attended traditional schools. To acquire details on the parents’ support to the children attending the program, interviews and focus group discussions were also held. According to preliminary findings, the ALP has made significant impact on the learning outcomes of out-of-school children in Liberia.

Keywords:

Accelerated learning program, learning outcomes, primary education, out-of-school children, Liberia.