What we want
Study uncovers desires of young
GEELONG’S youth want an easily accessible indoor play space and an increased number of activities in the suburbs, according to a new study called Creating Connections.
GEELONG’S youth want an easily accessible indoor playspace and an increased number of activities in the suburbs.
These are just two of the findings from a new study called Creating Connections — an exploration of social connectedness in Geelong’s young people.
The study— which focused on youths aged between 16 and 21 — will be used to help inform future policies and projects.
The study also identified the need for: LOW cost or free activities and more publicity for those low cost or free activities already running; AN increased number of activities to connect different groups and suburbs of Geelong; and, TAKING advantage o f websites such as Facebook to reach and engage youths.
Deakin University student researcher Sarah Hosking, who headed up the study with lecturer Greer Lamaro, said the results were an eyeopener.
‘‘I’m around the same age as a lot of the people who we spoke to and I’m not hugely into technology,’’ said Ms Hosking.
‘‘ Speaking to them and finding out how they use things such as Facebook to connect just blew my mind.
‘‘ The full results of the study will be published shortly and we’ve already had a lot of interest from community groups.’’
Ms Hosking said there were three inter-related and recurring themes: belonging; technology and everyday factors.
The study found that belonging to a group was seen as important.
‘‘While young people used technology for its convenience and low cost, they were also quick to point out the pitfalls associated with technology such as internet addiction, cyber predators and cyber bullying.
‘‘Everyday factors included money, transport, distance, safety, low cost or free activities and the need for a youth space in Geelong.
‘‘Of these factors the two most frequently mentioned were money and the need for an accessible ( including cost- friendly, convenient, and safe) youth space in Geelong.’’
The study was undertaken by Deakin in partnership with headspace Barwon, the Department of Human Services and G21 Social Connectedness Action Group.