ERIC Number: EJ1054161
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2014
Pages: 16
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0965-4283
EISSN: N/A
Health Promoting Schools: Consensus, Strategies, and Potential
Macnab, Andrew J.; Gagnon, Faith A.; Stewart, Donald
Health Education, v114 n3 p170-185 Apr 2014
Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to summarize a consensus statement generated on the current challenges, strategies, and potential of health promoting schools (HPS) at a 2011 colloquium at the Stellenbosch Institute for Advanced Study where 40 people from five continents came together to share their global and regional experience surrounding the World Health Organization (WHO) HPS model. Design/Methodology/Approach: Using the consensus as its foundation, this review summarizes the underlying educational and social science concepts and factors that contribute to success or failure of HPS, and incorporates peer reviewed papers based on invited presentations at the colloquium and key related literature. Findings: HPS increase knowledge and develop behaviors that benefit the health of children, such schools are also an investment in the well-being of the larger community. Importantly for their long-term psychological health "resilience" is generated by effective HPS programs. Professional development initiatives within schools can catalyze greater absorption of the healthy school approach and focus on best practices. Promotion, support, and evaluation of programs are aided by award schemes and oversight by local or national agencies. And significant educational benefits are accrued for trainees from centers of higher learning involved in HPS program delivery. Practical Implications: Educational initiatives that utilize the relative simplicity, low cost, and inherent flexibility of the HPS model can address many significant issues facing today's children. HPS offer an innovative and participatory way to increase the likelihood of the next generation becoming aware of practical ways to positively influence their lifestyle and future well-being. Successful programs are usually those that are relevant, resonate with students, and engage school communities so that they choose to "own" and sustain their program. Originality/Value: The consensus statement provides a benchmark of the current status of HPS, and outlines future directions for this model of health promotion.
Descriptors: Health Promotion, Fundamental Concepts, Program Effectiveness, Program Evaluation, Comprehensive School Health Education, Models, International Organizations, Literature Reviews, Peer Evaluation, Performance Factors, Conference Papers, Conferences (Gatherings), Health Behavior, Well Being, Resilience (Psychology), Psychological Characteristics, Professional Development, Best Practices, Delivery Systems, Partnerships in Education, College School Cooperation, Educational Change, Change Strategies, Program Implementation, Evaluation Methods, Educational Opportunities, Elementary Secondary Education
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Information Analyses; Reports - Evaluative
Education Level: Elementary Secondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A