A Study of the National Upward Bound and Talent Search Programs. Final Report. Volume IV. Evaluation Study of the Upward Bound Program.

Volume IV of a four volume report on the results of a national study of the Upward Bound (UBO and Educational Talent Search (ETS) programs focuses on Upward Bound itself. The first three chapters provide a general descriptive background to the study, its design and limitations. The next four chapters focus on: (1) characteristics of the UB staff, (2) characteristics of UB projects, (3) perceptions of UB by participating students, (4) student outcomes as a function of UB participation, and, (5) student outcomes as related to project characteristics. Findings of the evaluation include the following (1) UB does not appear to represent a single intervention treatment, or even two or three clearly delineated treatments; pursuit of the general objectives of the UB program appear to be common across projects, but particular programmatic emphases and assumptions relative to the attainment of the general objectives showed considerable variation among projects; (2) projects appear to be adequately staffed, with individuals of acceptable levels of formal training and experience for their positions; (3) although the overall program exhibits considerable variability, particularly in the academic component, UB seems to be effective in providing and delivering the basic activities required by the guidelines; (4) students involved in the UB projects appear positive about staff and their program experience; and, (5) projects appear to be compatible with and an integral and accepted part of their host institutions. (Author/AM)