Success Factors

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What makes a successful computer club? By "success" we mean that students are learning, having fun, are engaged and challenged. There is a certain energy and enthusiasm in a successful club, much like a successful sports team. It's a place students want to be, an activity everyone feels is worthwhile.

How do you create a successful club? Here are the factors we've found that lead to success.

Club size - One of the primary reasons students participate in after-school activities is to spend time with their friends. If the club is too small there aren't enough people there to make it fun socially, so some students drop out and you can get into a downward spiral. On the other hand if there is a good sized group your computer club can become the place to be, so more students join. The magic number is somewhere around 10. Clubs with less than 10 members tend to shrink, clubs with more than 10 members tend to grow.

A club can also be too big. You want to make sure there are enough computers and other equipment (like robot kits) so that every student can keep busy. If the club the coach may be stretched too thin and unable to help new students, so they get frustrated and quit. A good upper bound is 20 or 25 students, if you have enough computers and equipment for that many. It's better to have a full club with a waiting list than a huge club with frustrated students. Success factor: 10-25 students attend club meetings.

Role of the coach - A computer club coach is much like a sports team coach. The coach is there to handle logistics and encourage students to do their best. The steps listed on our Semester Outline give a good idea of the coach's responsibilities.

The most important job of the coach is cheerleader - getting students excited about the projects, the competition, and the awards, and encouraging full participation in all club activities. Touch base with each student individually on a regular basis to ensure they are learning, having fun, and are not stuck. If they are stuck point them to the resources they need, such as the tutorials on this web site or one of your student gurus.

The coach should also keep an eye on the calendar and guide students to completing their projects in time for the competition. Pacing is not a strength for most young people - they tend to leave things to the last minute. An adult perspective is a big help here.

The coach need not be a technical expert on the activities, in fact some of our best coaches have not been technical types. The real repository of expertise in your club are your student gurus, those students who have built up knowledge through hands on experience. Ask them to help teach newer students on a one-on-one basis and praise them for helping others. Success factor: Coach is an effective organizer and cheerleader.

Competitions - "The competitions are what make computer club fun!" one student recently told me. A competition at the end of each semester forms the focal point for club activities, a reason for students to try hard and finish their projects, and the highlight of the semester. Let students know that all club members are expected to complete a project and attend the competition. Talk it up throughout the semester. Arrange transportation for students and attend yourself. Success factor: At least two-thirds of club members attend each competition.

Challenge Awards - Students appreciate praise and recognition for their hard work. We have found the Challenge Award system is an effective way to motivate students and ensure that each student is receiving the full benefits of the program. Success factor: at least two-thirds of club members receive a Challenge Award each year.