United Future Leaders: A Case of the Use of Technology in Youth Programming and Hidden Curriculum

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a case study of the use of technology as a hidden curriculum in a youth leadership program (United Future Leaders-UFL).

Methodology/approach

A description of the UFL program, including theoretical framework and current use of various technology platforms, provide a backdrop to the hidden curriculum implemented by the programming staff. Both intended and unintended outcomes of the use of technology are discussed in the context of UFL values/themes.

Findings

A review of technology use in the UFL program resulted in the categorization of realms of influence (Staff ↔ Student Participants, Staff ↔ Staff, Staff ↔ Parents, Participants ↔ Participants) and five categories of technology use (reminders, communication, sharing of resources, reinforcing learning, increased parental involvement).

Practical/social implications

Examples of emerging patterns of this hidden curriculum, future directions for technology use within the program, and advice for youth program practitioners are included.

Originality/value

This paper adds to the general discussion of types and purpose of technology use, youth programming, and role of technology use as hidden curriculum.

Citation

Kostina-Ritchey, E., Follmer-Reece, H.E., Dodd, S.L., Sherman, K. and Gonzales, G. (2015), "United Future Leaders: A Case of the Use of Technology in Youth Programming and Hidden Curriculum", Technology and Youth: Growing Up in a Digital World (Sociological Studies of Children and Youth, Vol. 19), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 439-461. https://doi.org/10.1108/S1537-466120150000019016