Quality criteria for the assessment and creation of information and training resources in the field of media-related youth protection and media literacy promotion
In Switzerland there is a wealth of information resources aimed at children and adolescents, explaining the opportunities and risks associated with media use. However, there is no valid instrument to assess the quality of such material and services.
A set of criteria which would make it possible to evaluate and compare these resources was developed in collaboration with experts from the media-related youth protection field. It contents a set of 12 criteria and 29 indicators which could be applied to all information resources, regardless of their form, content and target public. This means that users can pick and choose the criteria and indicators that are relevant to them. A manual explains and describes each indicator, and provides instructions on how to apply the criteria.
This set of criteria makes the assessment of information resources easier and more systematic, which in turn improves the quality of the work. However, the FSIO, teacher training colleges and other interested professionals will have to consider taking this process one step further. From the point of view of multiplicators like specialist ICT centres and school principals, it might be preferable if the National Youth and Media Programme were to collect the assessments and post them, with comments, on its website.