PhD candidate Timo Dietrich and Research Fellow Lisa Schuster at St Mary’s Catholic College today

May 6, 2014

Drinking alcohol to excess isn’t a game, but a “game” could be a clue to help young people not drink to excess …

Researchers at Griffith University have developed “Game On: Know Alcohol“, a social marketing program that has been designed to allow students to have hands-on experience while learning about alcohol.

They say pilot results from the program have indicated significant improvements in students’ knowledge relating to alcohol, attitudes and moderate drinking.

It is now being delivered in 20 Catholic schools throughout Queensland as part of an evaluation project funded by the Australian Research Council.

Today it was the turn of St Mary’s Catholic College in Kingaroy.

PhD candidate Timo Dietrich, who is working towards a Doctorate in Social Marketing, said 30 St Mary’s Year 10 students worked their way through six lessons designed to teach them about the effects of alcohol, the concept of “standard” drinks, and strategies to drink in moderation or abstain.

As well as working through the electronic “game”, students also had practical experience, including wearing “beer goggles” that simulated drunkenness.

Timo said the team was collecting feedback on the all-day program to help improve it.


 

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