Step 3: Implementing and Evaluating Your Framework

For a campus cannabis-use framework to be implemented effectively it must be the result of a process that involves as many partners as possible who are invested in its success. Mechanisms also need to be in place to monitor and respond to feedback throughout this process.

All members of the community, including staff and students, need to be educated on the details of the framework using a variety of channels, including the school’s website, social media, student and staff handbooks, and orientation materials. Simple messages will help drive home the importance of the framework and of everyone’s cooperation.

Consider doing an education blitz at the beginning of each academic term. A graduated but consistent approach to education and health promotion will be most effective, as is use of different strategies. For example, awareness campaigns can be used alongside social media promotion during orientation week.

Part of ensuring that your cannabis-use framework is effective will involve focusing on the safety and wellbeing of all community members. To do this, your institution will need to develop an evaluation process that measures indicators of implementation success. This evaluation could be integrated with your broader evaluation of programs/initiatives, including those related to substance and alcohol use, and mental health. Such indicators could include:

  • Adherence by students and staff.
  • Awareness of framework components among staff and students as well as cannabis users and non-users.
  • Perceptions of enforcement.
  • Rate of complaints.
  • Impact on cannabis use among different groups (for example, students, staff, men, women, various age groups).
  • Framework objectives met.
  • Level of support for potential changes to the framework.

Finally, for any framework to be considered effective, it should be well received by all its constituents. It is important to continue revisiting and updating it when input is received from campus members, whether faculty, academic advisors, counsellors, student services professionals, or students.

Guide: PDF Version