NEC America launches educational forum for teens
Led by Jenna Hopper, current Miss Dallas Teen USA 2000 and Coppell High School senior, the presentation was designed to encourage "peer to peer" discussion and to promote individual responsibility by providing teenagers with pertinent information on the pros and cons of wireless use. Focus group research revealed that teenagers prefer to learn about important issues relating to them from an informed peer; therefore, the campaign features prominent teen spokespersons at each presentation. The "teens talking to teens" format is designed to provide teenagers with the information they need to make informed decisions about when, where, and how to dial smart.
"I think the program was very successful in that it allowed all of the students to voice their opinions and to learn about safe wireless use in a comfortable environment," Hopper said. "We talked about what to do and who to call in emergency situations, how to use wireless devices responsibly while driving, and even government regulation."
According to Teenage Research Unlimited Inc., nearly 20% of U.S. teens own a wireless phone, with penetration expected to double in the next year. The Cellular Telecommunications & Internet Association (CTIA) estimates that there are more than 45,000 new cell phone subscribers each day, and teenagers are quickly becoming one of the largest subgroups of users. Additionally, 1998 studies have shown that although teenagers make up about 10% of the population, they are involved in 14% of the fatal crashes. Because of these facts, NEC Wireless saw a need for an educational effort aimed at teenagers.
"The industry as a whole is very concerned about the importance of safe wireless use, especially while driving," said Jose Sosa, marketing vice president, wireless marketing division, NEC American Inc. "With the success of the first dial smart: choose how u use program, we think it can proactively try to make a difference in the lives of teens, as well as others on the road, and ultimately illustrate to teenagers the benefits of being responsible with wireless devices."
The program communicates useful tips, practices, and perspectives through a fun and informative format available in class or club settings. The presentation at Coppell High School marks the beginning of a national launch of the wireless safety program.
"Knowing what to do and who to call in a situation involving personal safety or security is just as important as having wireless access to help," Sosa said. "We give teenagers the information and the practices they need to know when these situations arise."
Edited by Ellen Jensen
Managing Editor, Wireless Networks Online