The widespread availability and popularity of e-cigarettes among youth in NYC have led to increased vaping-related health issues, impacting teenagers' well-being and posing significant challenges to public health. This trend underscores the need for informed decision-making and awareness of the long-term health and environmental effects associated with vaping.
Challenge Question
How can teenagers in NYC make informed choices to reduce the health impacts of vaping, considering the tradeoffs associated with the technology and its effects on both personal health and the community?
Standards
[Computer Science Teachers Association] 2-IC-20 - Compare tradeoffs associated with computing technologies that affect people's everyday activities and career options.
[National Council for the Social Studies] D2.Eco.8.6-8 - Explain how external benefits and costs influence market outcomes.
[Next Generation Science Standards] MS-LS2-4 - Construct an argument supported by empirical evidence that changes to physical or biological components of an ecosystem affect populations.
Competencies
Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.
Learning Partners and Clients
Collaborate with the YMCA of Greater New York and local high schools to facilitate peer-led workshops on the impacts of vaping. These partnerships will provide students with opportunities to engage in meaningful discussions and develop informed perspectives on vaping-related health issues. Through these collaborations, students will create Public Service Announcements (PSAs) that address the real-world challenges faced by teenagers in NYC, promoting healthier choices and raising awareness in their communities.
Phase Outcomes
Phase
Learning Outcome
Discover
I can identify the impacts of vaping on health and the environment through interactive activities that spark curiosity and motivate me to explore the root causes of this challenge.
Examine
I can research the effects of vaping by analyzing scientific data, interviewing experts, and collaborating with peers to understand its consequences on individuals and communities.
Engineer
I can develop a creative and effective public service announcement that addresses vaping-related issues and encourages informed decision-making among teenagers.
Do
I can test the effectiveness of my PSA by gathering feedback from peers and community members, and use real-world data to refine my approach before the final presentation.
Share
I can share my PSA and personal learning journey with an audience that includes peers, educators, and community stakeholders, highlighting the impact of my project and what I've discovered about myself.