Videotaped materials in a school-based smoking prevention program

Abstract

The theory used to frame school-based tobacco use prevention programs is general, and such programs are difficult to replicate. This article seeks to offer a model for prevention videotape production, which other researchers can replicate and improve, and to present an analysis of potential merits and drawbacks of such production. To accomplish these goals, this article presents a detailed description of a school-based prevention program and the videotaped materials used in its curriculum. The theoretical and empirical bases for the project are delineated, and the study design is summarized. A detailed outline of the multi-grade curriculum program is presented, including the rationale behind critical program features, a description of specific curriculum strands, and the way in which videotaped materials fit into each strand. The rationale for using videotaped materials within the theoretical framework is discussed. Each videotape is briefly described. An account of video production, a process extending over 4 years, is set forth, including the student feedback data that helped to shape the production process, formatting, script decisions, casting, location, and the actual filming procedure.