Encouraging the positive use of technology through community engagement. Issue 3 (11th July 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lester, Leanne; Cross, Donna; Terrelinck, Debbie; Falconer, Sarah; Thomas, Laura
• Is Part Of: Safer communities. Volume 15:Issue 3(2016)
• Page Start: 134
• Page End: 141
• Publication Date: 2016-07-11
• Subjects: Community -- Adolescents -- Local government -- Partnership -- Transition -- Cybersafety; Crime prevention -- Great Britain -- Periodicals; 364.40941
• DOI: 10.1108/SC-11-2015-0035
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1757-8043

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to describe a seven stage community engagement process to develop and disseminate community uptake strategies which encouraged cybersafety as part of a positive transition from primary to secondary school among Australian young people. Design/methodology/approach: The combined principles from socio-ecological models, community development models and student participation models formed the foundation for the strategies. Resources were developed for all members of the community – students, parents, teachers and the broader community. The methods included: the formation of a steering committee and a Youth Advisory Board; review of the current literature; development of online resources; a youth resource development activity; development of youth resources; translation of resources into health promotion initiatives; and the dissemination of resources at community events and facilities such as schools, libraries and recreation centres and through print and social media. Findings: Community engagement strategies – in particular a partnership between a Western Australian university and local government body, the steering committee consisting of local organisations, and the student advisory board – were used to successfully design and promote resources developed by young people for young people. Originality/value: This study utilises a community-level approach to develop resources to encourage cybersafety and a positive transition from primary to secondary school.