Whole Spectrum Intervention System

At its simplest, Ripple Effects Whole Spectrum Intervention System (WSIS) is a computerized training intervention to build personal strengths, change behavior and address personal problems. Typically learners - usually youth - use it in 15 to 20 minute bites, for an assigned length of time, under adult supervision, but not adult mediation of the experience. For a more extensive description of the system you can request a copy the 35-page Intervention Description booklet.

Ripple Effects Whole Spectrum Intervention System is a “smart system.” It has an integrated set of elements that offer multiple, customizable functions to an expanding network of users. User guides promote “best practices” for successful use. Users can take advantage of all or any part of the system and easily personalize the system for their needs. Their collective participation adds value to all other users. There is a security system built in, in this case safeguards for fidelity and cultural competence. The importance of the system is not the technology, but the experience that it opens up for users, and the changes that happen in their lives because of that.

An integrated set of resources

Underpinning a simple, engaging end ­ user experience is the Ripple Effects Whole Spectrum Intervention System, a comprehensive, technology enabled, system of integrated resources for effective, culturally competent, tiered interventions to address non­academic factors in school and life success.

It is designed to enable youth serving organizations to more easily provide evidence-based, scalable, sustainable, tiered interventions to meet the diverse, individual needs of the whole spectrum of today’s youth, in a whole spectrum of site ­ specific circumstances with special attention to youth most at risk of involvement with the juvenile justice system and negative health safety and educational outcomes.

The components

The WSIS system consists of:

1. An integrated set of software tools

• Needs Assessment
• Training Software
• Evaluation
• Data management

2. Implementation resources

• Live
• Print
• Electronic

3. A structure for tiered interventions

• Primary
• Secondary
• Tertiary

4. Research under various conditions of use

• Formative
• Process
• Outcomes

A community of users who:

• Generate and contribute content
• Share wisdom about effective practices
• Offer continuing direction for new development