Keeping Young ICT Talent on the Right Path: A Plan and Process Evaluation
This project focuses on evaluating a recently developed intervention for young people aged 12 to 25 who have an interest in ICT and who sometimes explore or cross legal boundaries online.
Centre of Expertise Cyber Security
Young people often explore the limits of what is permitted online and may be tempted to cross those boundaries. As society becomes increasingly digitalised, the importance of offering positive alternatives for this target group continues to grow.
The intervention was developed by the Cyber Offender Prevention Squad (COPS) of the Dutch National Police and is implemented through a local public–private partnership. This one-day intervention aims to guide participants towards a legal future by informing them about the boundaries and opportunities of the online world. An effective intervention can not only help prevent online criminal behaviour but also encourage young people to use their ICT talents for the benefit of society.
This research critically examines the intervention by assessing its design, theoretical foundation, and implementation in practice. Insight into these aspects is essential for the further development and long-term sustainability of the initiative.
Project duration
2022–2024
Project progress
In 2022, the Cybercrime & Cybersecurity research group conducted a plan evaluation to assess whether the intended programme could achieve its objectives. The evaluation showed that a solid first step had been taken, but also identified opportunities for improvement in documentation, visibility, reach, and the number of pilot implementations. In addition, recommendations were made to strengthen the intervention’s resilience and long-term sustainability.
In 2022–2023, a process evaluation of three pilot implementations was carried out to assess whether the programme was implemented consistently and as intended. This evaluation involved observations, interviews, and questionnaires completed by both participants and programme facilitators.
Commissioning organisation
Dutch National Police
Contact
If you have any questions or comments about this research, please contact:
- Milou Andriessen ([email protected])
- Merel van Leuken ([email protected])
- Dr Susanne van ’t Hoff-de Goede ([email protected])
Centre of Expertise Cyber Security