Citation

Bradley EG, Kendall B. J. Technol. Behav. Sci. 2019; 4(4): 340-345.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2019, Holtzbrinck Springer Nature Publishing Group)

DOI

10.1007/s41347-019-00106-w

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Suicide is a major public health issue and is the second leading cause of death among adolescents. Teachers are in an ideal position to screen and refer at-risk students, but most teachers have not received adequate training in this area. The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of a computer simulation on training teachers in effective identification and referral practices for middle school students at-risk for bullying and suicidal ideation. Students in a Masters of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program in New York State completed At-Risk for Middle School Educators, a computer simulation created by Kognito Interactive that is intended to effectively train teachers in effective identification and referral practices for middle school students at-risk for bullying and suicidal ideation. Participants completed pre- and post-intervention surveys and participated in an online discussion of the simulation training.

RESULTS of a paired-samples t test indicated that At-Risk for Middle School Educators significantly improved the likelihood that teachers will recommend a student in distress for psychological services. It also significantly improved teacher confidence and competence in approaching and referring at-risk students to mental health services. Although the sample size was small and further research is warranted, results suggest that At-Risk for Middle School Educators is an effective training tool for educators in the area of the identification and referral of at-risk students. © 2019, Springer Nature Switzerland AG.

Language: en

Keywords

Suicide prevention; At-risk youth; Computer simulations; Educational technology; Teacher training