who we are

About Us

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Cities Learn is a product of Northwestern University's Digital Youth Network (DYN). DYN is a research lab focused on designing more equitable systems for youth. We are a team of researchers, product designers, technologists and practitioners that have worked at every level of the out-of-school time space since 2005.

Our team has led citywide OST networks, redesigned how public libraries can engage youth, delivered STEAM programming for thousands and developed a purpose-built infrastructure specifically for OST.

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About cities learn

About Us        

Communities want to provide equitable access to after-school and other enrichment opportunities for their youth, but they lack a shared understanding of the learning landscape necessary to drive alignment. 

Without this understanding, it’s impossible for communities to create specialised programming, an OST provider network, learning policies or transportation systems that will support quality youth programming in the neighbourhoods that need them most. 

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History of us

Communities want to provide equitable access to after-school and other enrichment opportunities for their youth, but they lack a shared understanding of the learning landscape necessary to drive alignment. 

Without this understanding, it’s impossible for communities to create specialised programming, an OST provider network, learning policies or transportation systems that will support quality youth programming in the neighbourhoods that need them most. 

Funded by

Mcarthur foundation logoNSF logoCME group logoVIVO logoNorthwestern Logo

Current research

Citieslearn connects stakeholders in a city's out-of-school time network, providing a hub for collecting and sharing data to gain a comprehensive view of youth development and identify areas of need.

Citieslearn connects stakeholders in a city's out-of-school time network, providing a hub for collecting and sharing data to gain a comprehensive view of youth development and identify areas of need.

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    Customized Solutions: Offers customized tools and resources
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    Features : Specific features of the platform that are tailored to each stakeholder group
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    Results: Highlights the positive impact of using the platform,
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Our team

Dr. Nichole Pinkard

Founder

Akili Lee

Co-Founder

Dr. Yolanda Majors

Research Lab Director

Arikpo Dada

Program Coordinator

Mark Ellul

Lead Software Engineer

Deanna Howlett

Data Analyst

Mighel Jackson

Technical Operations Manager

Viviana Lanuza

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Sydney Simmons

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Hey! Want  to join us?

Unite your city's OST network and ensure access to quality after-school and summer programs with Cities Learn

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