Cohort 2 followed the same model as the first cohort and in their first year the students selected the issue of Healthy Dating Relationships. All of the students knew someone who was in a verbally, emotionally or physically abusive relationship. After reviewing curricula from across the nation the students decided that most of them focused on abuse, but the students wanted a program that was more positive. They decided to create their own model with a local wellness expert.
Similarly to Cohort 1, this group worked with Tulsa-area schools to pilot their program. In addition, they hired a faculty expert at the University of Oklahoma—Tulsa to evaluate the effectiveness of their program. They initially piloted their program in four schools but the results were inconclusive. Based on feedback they made adjustments but by this time they were nearing the completion of their three years.
Building on Cohort 1’s success, the students in Cohort 2 expanded their focus. First, instead of adopting an established curriculum they created one. Second, in addition to relying on a curriculum based strategy the students created an awareness campaign. They branded their initiative as “Redefine: New Rules, Better Relationships.” They created a website that provided resources and launched an awareness campaign through local media.
