This article traces the reconceptualization of a primarily co-curricular undergraduate enrichment program, from experienced-based to competency-based development. It argues that, rather than holding a central place in the program's curriculum, the concept of "deliberative democracy" that grounds the program is best understood as an…

As numerous studies from 1906 on have confirmed, children lose ground in learning if they lack opportunities for building skills over the summer. Nonetheless, summer learning loss comes up but rarely in the national discussion of education reform. By the end of summer, students perform on average one month behind where they left off in the spring.…