Interactive multimedia preventive alcohol education: A technology application in higher education

This article summarizes the process of implementation and short-term impact on knowledge and attitudes of an interactive multimedia software program o n preventive alcohol education for young adults. The three factors related to behavioral change addressed in the software are self-efficacy in maintai ning personal control and safety while using alcohol, attitudes and related expectations regarding the physiological and behavioral consequences of al cohol consumption, and peer norms regarding alcohol consumption. As compare d to alternative alcohol education and a no-alcohol education groups, stude nts using the interactive computer lesson reported learning more about dose -response and ways to intervene with friends in peril. The article conclude s with consideration of the import of this technology for informing student s about the consequences of alcohol use, and the utility to higher educatio n institutions of using this technology in an era when pressures increase f or due diligence around student safety but with few additional institutiona l resources.