Across Australia, youth gambling is becoming a major concern. More and more young people are getting involved in playing pokies and betting on sports, and local educators want to ensure that young people understand the reality of gambling. A new program is being trialled at Victorian schools by the Mathematical Association of Victoria, and it will teach youths about the real odds of gambling.
One of the main issues that concerns educators about youth gambling is that many students do not have the knowledge to make informed decisions. Most young people have never been taught about gambling and they are aware that much of what they know are simply misconceptions.
“The fact is most of them aren’t taught anything about it — they just don’t understand,’’ says Ian Lowe, an education consultant in the maths department. “People like to think that they are lucky and that this is their lucky day. There are all sorts of misconceptions, all of which can be blown apart by simply an analytical approach.”
It is becoming increasingly important to spread awareness to young people about gambling misconceptions, as more and more young people are being exposed to gambling. Social casinos and free-play gambling apps allow young people to gamble with virtual money.
Although there is no danger of them losing their own cash, there are concerns that play-money gambling could lead young people to developing unhealthy gambling habit later on in life. This program aims to prevent that. Educators will provide students in year 11 and 12 with insight into the way in which gambling odds are stacked against them.
It is hoped that the knowledge will teach them responsible gambling habits that they can utilise in the future. Trials for the program will start next month at two schools in Melbourne. Any other schools that wish to take part can contact the Mathematical Association of Victoria at [email protected].
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