New DARE and Research-Based
Principles of Prevention Effectiveness
Equipped with the latest science-based prevention learning components,
NEW D.A.R.E. provides curricula that actively engage students in innovative
learning. The new curricula are based on research-based Principles of
Prevention Effectiveness, science-based National Health Education Standards
and measurable objectives. All lessons are student-directed and help
students practice decision-making and refusal skills in a variety of
contexts.
As a result of the new programs, thousands of current D.A.R.E. officers
have undergone significant “re-tooling” to learn the dynamics
of active learning and facilitated teaching. In addition to extensive
training in the new methodology and lessons, officers must complete
an online course. The basis of the programs is not traditional lecture,
rather, the officers act as a “guide on the side” skillfully
facilitating student-centered activities and skill development.
The research-based Principles of Prevention Effectiveness (Department
of Education, DOE) improve outcomes and are the cornerstones of the
NEW D.A.R.E.
Specifically:
1. NEW D.A.R.E. programs are developmentally appropriate with easy-to-relate-to
situations/activities that both engage and challenge the students to
think deeply. A team of national prevention and curriculum experts field-tested
the lessons to assure age specific relevance and enjoyment.
2. NEW D.A.R.E. dismisses one time applications and supports frequency
of instruction that starts early and often—each program has a
minimum of ten spiraling lessons. Particular emphasis is found in the
transitional years of seventh and ninth grades.
3. NEW D.A.R.E. programs apply a variety of active learning techniques
that support student-centered learning. Students process ideas in groups,
and practice decision-making skills in spiraling activities that they
easily relate to.
4. NEW D.A.R.E. has required a complete overhaul of the DARE Officer
Training Program. This 80 hour intensive training, designed to improve
outcomes, applies active learning and facilitated teaching using all
of the new lessons. All officers are trained in both the elementary
and middle school programs and achieve certification as a SRO officer.
Training tapes are provided and officers must also successfully complete
an online training course.
5. NEW D.A.R.E. applies decision-making skills throughout the elementary
and middle school programs. The easy steps help students build skills
as they process dilemmas and situations.
6. NEW D.A.R.E. teaches students a working knowledge of risk of how
substances affect the human brain and body. With high-tech imaging students
apply the latest facts to real life situations. Most lessons are reinforced
with discussion of how the human body is harmed by ATOD.
7. NEW D.A.R.E. develops healthy attitudes about why students should
refuse ATOD. New skills are practiced as students reflect why they value
a healthy body and brain.
8. NEW D.A.R.E. reinforces accurate normative beliefs in a series of
lessons where students investigate perceived versus actual usage data
for students their own age.
9. NEW D.A.R.E. promotes media literacy by practicing skills that focus
on understanding media motives, warning labels, and truthful advertising.
10. NEW D.A.R.E. focuses on good communication skills building from
the simple to the complex. Student groups practice listening activities
with feedback activities designed to strengthen the practice of clear
response styles.
11. NEW D.A.R.E. develops good refusal skills through a series of group
activities that provide all students many opportunities to process,
apply and make meaning of their right to refuse.
12. NEW D.A.R.E. promotes high self-efficacy as students practice and
become confident in their ability to use new skills.
The Principles of Prevention Effectiveness are interwoven throughout
the ten lessons of both the elementary and middle school curricula.
The dynamic lessons build on themselves enabling students to apply their
new skills in spiraling problem-solving activities.
NEW D.A.R.E. builds on the healthy relationship law enforcement has
always enjoyed in our schools. Combining the goals of providing a safe
learning environment while teaching a state-of-the-art student-centered
program is two-fold impact that belongs in all schools.
NEW D.A.R.E. continues to be taught in over 75% of the school systems
throughout the nation. The tradition continues!
DARE America - 2005
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