The Association of School Learning Environment With Adolescent Health Behaviors

Area of Science:

• Adolescent health
• Educational psychology
• Public health

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a shift to remote and hybrid learning models in schools.
• These changes in instructional delivery raise critical questions regarding their impact on student health and well-being.
• Understanding these impacts is crucial for developing effective support systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between different learning environments (in-person, hybrid, remote) and adolescent health outcomes.
• To identify specific health risks and protective factors associated with each learning modality.
• To inform the development of targeted prevention strategies for students.

Main Methods:

• Utilized data from the Healthy Kids Colorado Survey, a statewide surveillance system.
• Survey administered in Fall 2020 to 4,564 students across 26 high schools.
• Examined associations between learning environment and various adolescent health indicators.

Main Results:

• Hybrid and remote learners reported significantly higher stress levels compared to in-person learners.
• Students in remote and hybrid settings experienced reduced school connectedness.
• Remote students reported increased instances of parental abuse but decreased alcohol consumption.

Conclusions:

• The learning environment significantly influences adolescent health, presenting both risks and protective factors.
• Findings underscore the need to address mental health and safety concerns in non-traditional educational settings.
• Results can guide the enhancement of school-based and home-based prevention strategies for youth wellbeing.