earticle

영어

Purpose: The aim of this study was to identify the effects of community mapping based on volunteered Geographic Information System on smoking prevention among female middle school students. Methods: This study used a triangulation method which integrated quantitative data from a “pre-post” study on a nonequivalent control group and qualitative data from focus group interviews. Data was collected from 4 August 2015 to 10 January 2016. The experimental group (n=24) participated in community mapping along with education on smoking prevention and the control group (n=28) participated only in routine education. Both groups were measured on their knowledge and attitude related to smoking prevention through self-report questionnaires. The quantitative data was analyzed by descriptive statistics, x2 analysis, and t-test using SPSS 23.0. The qualitative data was collected through focus group interviews to investigate the social-environmental effect of smoking prevention. Results: Knowledge related to smoking prevention was significantly higher (t=2.591, p=.013) in the experimental group than the control group. But attitude related to smoking prevention did not show significant differences between the two groups. When asked about their experiences of the community mapping program, it turned out to be a process where they could learn practical knowledge related to smoking prevention and experience their individual practices manifested as collective intelligence while working together with community members. The study found that community mapping had an effect on smoking prevention from a social and environmental aspect. Conclusion: To be more effective, school education on smoking prevention should be provided in connection with the community. It is also desirable to provide an opportunity where adolescents can experience discovering and solving practical problems along with their own community.