Distributed Discussion: An Integrated eParticipation Model for Engaging Young People in Technology Policy

Abstract

This chapter describes an eParticipation model, designed to be especially appropriate to young people and complex topics: distributed discussion. It draws on the experiences of the HUWY project, which piloted a distributed discussion model, in four countries, to assess how this supported young people's engagement. The pilot revealed that young people valued structured and well supported discussions, particularly well-facilitated offline discussions. Integrating online and offline, national and international elements are the advantages and challenges of this model. This chapter aims to give an overview of the theoretical basis, process and impacts of the model and to provide recommendations for future development and use.