OC48 - Hurtology: an online course

Abstract

UNLABELLED: Theme: School health. BACKGROUND: The prevalence of anxiety and depression suggests a need to improve on the mental health education of young people. The school setting can provide a venue for offering such knowledge to adolescents. OBJECTIVES: This study explored whether a video game enhances lessons designed to help adolescents become more receptive to learning about mental health concepts. METHODS: This study used a quantitative between-subjects design. The first group experienced a set of computer-based lessons. The second group received the same content, but also played a video game designed to reinforce topics explored in the other materials. RESULTS: The findings showed that game players demonstrated deeper learning on at least one measure. DISCUSSION: Helping adolescents develop better ways to understand the relevance of emotional health is a worthwhile endeavour. CONCLUSIONS: New technologies can be used to improve learning and help young people become more receptive to addressing mental health concerns.