Barrier to successful implementation | Features of Internet-based programs | Advantages |
Lack of resources (teachers, time, money) | ・ Professionals not required for program delivery ・ Minimal teacher involvement in program delivery ・ No teacher training required | ・ Reduction in costs and time ・ Increased feasibility of use |
Restricted access (geographic and socioeconomic constraints) | ・ Internet is portable ・ Accessible in majority of schools ・ High development costs, but reduction in dissemination costs | ・ Less restrictive in geographically isolated and low socioeconomic areas ・ Potential for wide dissemination |
Poor implementation fidelity | ・ Content is pre-programmed ・ Delivery not dependent on the teacher | ・ Complete and consistent delivery of program content is guaranteed ・ Reduced risk for teachers to make adaptations and/or deletions |
Self-disclosure issues | ・ Increased perceptions of anonymity and privacy | ・ Potential to increase self-disclosure about substance use |
Lack of student engagement | ・ Can incorporate audio-visual elements and provide personalised feedback ・ Interactive and appealing to teenagers | ・ Increased student engagement |