The major focus of the Experiential Learning Project award was “Raising awareness about the usage of car safety restraints for child safety in cars” in Moldova. This project aimed to assess the current level of knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to the use of child safety devices among parents and to implement tailored educational interventions. The study also sought to identify specific gaps in parents’ knowledge about device types, correct installation, and age-appropriate use, as well as practical barriers to their use.

Receiving the Experiential Learning Project Award was a pivotal first research experience, focusing on child road safety prevention in Moldova. The project tackled the critical issue of low child safety device usage despite high awareness, employing a comprehensive mixed-methods study (focus groups and questionnaires) to understand parental behaviors and knowledge gaps.

This project significantly advanced my violence and injury prevention career by providing invaluable practical research experience, allowing me to apply theoretical knowledge to a real-world public health challenge from conception to conclusion. It revealed the complex behavioral factors influencing safety practices and has deeply solidified my dedication to public health, shaping my future research interests and collaborative efforts in the vital field of injury prevention. Furthermore, its outcomes have directly informed key areas for future investigation, including exploring the root causes of non-compliance, designing targeted information campaigns, analyzing policy enforcement impacts, addressing specific barriers, and involving children in educational initiatives.