Date of Award

2014

Publication Type

Master Thesis

Degree Name

M.Ed.

Department

Education

Keywords

Acceptance, Compassion, Empathy, Resilience, Respect, Sense of Belonging

Supervisor

Salinitri, Geri

Rights

info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess

Abstract

This paper focuses on the one-day event, Project B.L.A.S.T., and its impact on student and adult participants, intrinsically and extrinsically. Former participants in the event were recruited on a volunteer basis, and were interviewed on the impact this event had on them, as well as the perceptive impact it had on others. Using a qualitative approach, thematic analysis, was used to draw conclusions about impact and perceived impact, as well as short and long-term implications. Project B.L.A.S.T. stands for: breaking barriers, loving yourself, accepting others, similarities not differences, and totally inclusive experience. It is a proactive approach to adversity faced by 21st century youth, and an eye-opening experience for all. The development of resiliency is crucial to one's ability to develop into a socially competent citizen, and must be a primary focus of our current education system if youth are expected to demonstrate personal and social responsibility, and transfer these skills when out in the real world. With heightened risk factors of the 21st century, continuous efforts must be made to alleviate that which impedes youth's academic, social, personal, emotional and psychological potential, competency and success.

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