Users can also talk more widely about the letters/questions, and present their own problems and concerns, either in their groups or by using the website's bulletin board. The emphasis is on creating an informal and non-judgemental atmosphere where students can work in privacy and focus on their own experiences, knowledge and needs. The print version also gives ideas for related participatory activities that teachers and youth group leaders can use.

The project constantly followed a participatory (PRA) methodology, which stresses that students should learn through discussion and through doing things themselves, rather than by having teachers (who know) pour knowledge into students (who don't know). The PRA philosophy begins with the knowledge and experience of the learners, and uses various methods to provoke discussion and encourage them to action.

The material has been widely used in schools in Zimbabwe, as well as in AIDS support organisations, youth centres, sports clubs, child abuse support centres, family planning centres, and church and debating clubs.

Auntie Stella can be used in 4 ways:

• the print version alone.
• the print version and the website Bulletin Board.
• the electronic version used individually.
• the electronic version used in groups.

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