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Abstract |
The school has a potential to be a supportive environment for health. During 1995-96 the Department of Community Health in the Western Stockholm Medical District has developed a model for supportive environments at schools, aimed at pupils aged 13-18. The model, called "Drivkraft" guides a group of pupils and a grown mentor to make changes at school. Four steps are included in the model: 1. An inventory at school, what needs to be changed? 2. Ranking of suggestions, setting goals
3. Change is made 4. Evaluation and celebration.
Purpose
To present results from a pilot test of the usability of a student centred model for change.
Method
Criteria´s for usability are: How users understand the model. How the steps are used. How the work is structured.
The results of "Drivkraft".
A method triangulation strategy has been attempted. Data collection methods used are: interviews, forms, diaries, faxes, notes and telephone interviews. Six schools, with pupils aged 13-18 years, situated in areas with various socio-economic status participated in the test. Three of the schools were situated within the Stockholm area.
Results
"Drivkraft" has been used in different ways in the schools. The model was integrated in a subject, in the student board, as a "Students choice", and for anti-bullying work. Priorities and character of changes have varied among schools. Examples of changes are rebuildning the school-yard, improving student democracy, influence teacher planning, and actualising anti-bullying work.
Conclusions
The pilot test showed that "Drivkraft" works. Important conclusions are that working with the model needs support from the school board and from outside, for example the County Council. Working with "Drivkraft" also demands a lot of time, a dedicated mentor and inspiration from others using the model. Financial support strengthens further the progress of the work. |