Youth Media Network (YMN) is an innovative project that demonstrates methods to empower young people to take an active role in social change. The project is a comprehensive model for technology in health education that integrates a web site designed to provide information and resources about tobacco; technology trainings that examine the various components of media literacy, media advocacy and Internet advocacy; curricula that provide detailed instruction for creating media advocacy projects and illustrate effective, hands-on advocacy techniques and campaigns to use with youth and college populations; an annual media competition that assesses students' knowledge and skills; technical assistance for students, educators and trainers to broaden the appeal of information literacy and new technologies; and evidence-based analysis. Youth Media Network (YMN) encourages young people ages 8-24 to use the power of communication and their own creative talents to address their peers about the importance of a healthy, tobacco-free lifestyle. YMN offers students the opportunity to create web pages, get involved in Internet campaigns, and create media pieces that address the real-life issues surrounding tobacco in their homes, in their schools and in their communities. YMN offers health educators, instructors and teachers a broadening and enriching supplement to compliment the work they do in the field of tobacco. Youth Media Network has been successful in creating an online educational resource that is available in schools and in communities with Internet capabilities. YMN has demonstrated an innovative and developmentally appropriate way to utilize technology in a comprehensive model for tobacco education and prevention.
Learning Objectives: 1. Recognize and articulate components of a comprehensive model for technology in health education and prevention. 2. Identify and utilize the Internet as a resource for information and advocacy in tobacco control. 3. Identify and utilize youth and college advocacy activities for tobacco prevention, education and advocacy
Keywords: Tobacco, Advocacy
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Youth Media Network (YMN)
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.