Using an Active Learning Approach (the 4-H model) to Stimulate Social Change: Youth and Community Development in the Republic of Kyrgyzstan

Authors

  • Timothy K. Kock Oklahoma State University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5195/jyd.2010.221

Abstract

As Kyrgyzstan recovers from the collapse of the Soviet Union, the youth of this Newly Independent State (NIS) face troubling times. Poverty has become all to familiar throughout the country; its people, including youth, are losing hope and question their ability to be productive members of society (Lines & Kock, 2004). Kyrgyzstan’s future leaders – like all nations - are found among its youth of today. Therefore, it behooves the government and citizens of Kyrgyzstan to develop youth centers designed to enhance the skills young people need to succeed now and in the future. This paper describes a program designed to teach Kyrgyz youth and adults teamwork, and civic responsibility through experiential learning activities. The paper outlines the steps taken and results derived from the hands-on trainings provided to the participants in one location in Kyrgyzstan. Findings from this study may have implications for other international youth development projects.

Downloads

Published

2010-06-01

Issue

Section

Program & Practice Articles