University in anti-bullying appeals to schools

 Researchers at the University of Warwick are appealing to local schools to take part in a ground-breaking anti-bullying project.

 Academics at the University’s Department of Psychology are trialling new computer software which gives youngsters the chance to test out anti-bullying strategies in a computer-based virtual environment.

 Professor Dieter Wolke explained: “Teachers try to help children who are being bullied, but research shows this doesn’t always work.  We’re looking at a new parallel approach supporting teacher efforts that allows youngsters to try out different ways of dealing with the problem.

 “Early trials of the software have been very successful, but now we need local schools to help us test the system.”

 Schools interested in taking part in the scheme should contact the coordinating researcher Dr Maria Sapouna on 024 765 75527.

 Ends

 For further information contact:    Richard Fern, Press Officer,

                                                            Communications Office, University House

                                                            University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 8UW

REF PR 42 RWF 16 May 2007      07876 217740 email: r.w.fern@warwick.ac.uk