Our Approach

Our Approach to Learning

YPI engages students in an authentic, inquiry-based process, which is structured around carefully designed outcomes and tasks. The project scaffolds student development to engage participants  in critical experiential learning that has a real world impact. YPI uses Project-Based Learning pedagogy with a Social & Emotional Learning approach, and targets the development of 21st Century Skills.

YPI’s program model and target outcomes are aligned with the strongest current research into major developmental frameworks for youth, as outlined in “Youth Who Thrive”: a summary of critical factors and effective programs for youth, created by the Students Commission of Canada and the Social Program Evaluation Group at Queen’s University for the YMCA of Greater Toronto, United Way Toronto (now known as United Way Toronto and York Region), and the Ontario Ministry of Children and Youth Services.

For a more detailed explanation of how YPI implements the above pedagogical approaches,  how this leads to targeted outcomes for positive youth development, and how we measure our success, please see the downloadable resources below.