About the Application
Product Name: At Risk for Middle School Students
Publisher: Kognito
Goals
At-Risk for Middle School Educators is a computer simulation focused on teaching educators how to identify at-risk students by recognizing warning signs, approaching at-risk students, and referring at-risk students for mental health services (Kognito Interactive, 2012). Topics include promoting resiliency, intervening with bullying, and identifying suicidal ideation. The publisher also produces content that is applicable for different age groups, such as High School and Elementary School.
Program Evaluation
Kognito Interactive’s At-Risk for Middle School Students produced significant effects on teacher confidence and competence in approaching and referring at-risk students for mental health services.
Pros
Users positively rated the simulation’s effectiveness, ease of use, and applicability, as well as the degree to which they would recommend the simulation for use at their school. They found the simulation to be an effective and useful tool in training how to identify at-risk students. Users reported that the simulation held their attention, was interesting to use, and was realistic and relevant.
Cons
Some of the simulation dialogue choices felt contrived and limited. Including more students with more issues, and making the students’ acting even more realistic, could further enhance the simulation.
URL: https://www.kognito.com/products/pk12/
Cost: $29 per user