From Media Space to Reflexive Space: Project of the Awake1525 Journalism Lab and Youth Spiritual Health

Abstract

        This article examines the process of meaning-making related to the spiritual health of adolescents through the “Awake1525” platform, developed by the Journalism Program, Faculty of Journalism and Mass Communication, Thammasat University, with support from JitArsa Bank. The platform was designed as a digital media space with the characteristics of a “hybrid media-learning space,” aiming to serve as an experimental journalism platform for learning and the development of well-being. The project employed reflexive writing as its primary process to support youth writers in developing self-understanding and intellectual well-being, grounded in the conceptual framework of JitArsa Bank and the Thai Health Promotion Foundation.

        The article aims to: (1) examine the characteristics of Awake1525 as a reflexive learning space for adolescents; (2) analyze forms of communication and meaning-making expressed through youth writing; and (3) explore the potential of reflexive writing in contributing to intellectual well-being. The findings suggest that a key strength of the platform lies in its ability to create a “safe space for thought,” where young participants are able to explore personal experiences, raise questions, and construct meaning through writing naturally and openly. In this context, writing functions less as content production for publication and more as a process of reflection and thinking.

        In terms of content quality, the study found that the platform demonstrates a clear youth identity in its content, particularly through storytelling that enables meaningful connections with readers. At the same time, there remains room to further develop analytical thinking skills to move beyond personal reflection toward forms of knowledge production that can engage broader public communication. In relation to youth participation, the platform serves as an accessible starting point that effectively encourages participation among adolescents. It also shows potential for developing more continuous and systematic pathways for writer development, allowing writing to become part of a longer-term learning process.

        Regarding spiritual health, the findings indicate that reflexive writing operates as an important mechanism through which young people can organize their thoughts, develop self-understanding, and strengthen their capacity for critical questioning. However, the study also points to the need for clearer assessment tools that can systematically capture and evaluate these outcomes. Overall, the Awake1525 project demonstrates the potential to develop into a more systematic journalism-for-learning mechanism that can play an important role in supporting and promoting the spiritual health of young people.