Health Canal report: By: Julia Phipps - Hundreds of students at Catholic colleges on Brisbane's south side are piloting an online game to improve alcohol awareness among teens.
The research project, jointly funded by Griffith University and the Queensland Catholic Education Commission (QCEC), involves the design and testing of an alcohol harm minimisation program called Game On: Know Alcohol!
It includes an online game, experiential activities and role plays and is being tested by more than 200 year 10 students at San Sisto College at Carina and Villanova College at Coorparoo.
The eight-week pilot study began on April 29.
Lead researcher Associate Professor Sharyn Rundle-Thiele says the majority of current teaching resources for alcohol education were out of date and don't reflect the recently revised Australian drinking guidelines.
"This project aims to produce a tangible resource for use in secondary schools which is both interactive and fun and that increases awareness and knowledge about drinking in moderation," Associate Professor Rundle-Thiele said.
A survey measuring the students' attitudes towards alcohol and knowledge of standard drinks will be run before and after the new program is implemented to assess its effectiveness.
The researchers will work in the schools with the students and teachers to oversee the project.
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