Title: Implementation and Evaluation of a Low-Literacy Diabetes Education Computer Multimedia Application
Name: J.T. Katavich
Date: 11-10-09
APA reference:
Gerber, B.S. MD, Brodsky, I.G. MD, Lawless, K.A. PHD, Smolin, L.I. EED, Arozullah, A.M. MD, Smith, E.V. PHD, et al. (2005) Implementation
and Evaluation of a Low-Literacy Diabetes Education Computer Multimedia Application. Diabetes Care, 28(7), 1574-1580.
Problem: This study aimed to evaluate multimedia intervention in clinics for diabetes education, targeting a diverse population.
Context: The study took place in five public clinics in Chicago, IL. Each had a computer Kiosk installed in their lobby. There were 244 subjects who were either given intervention with audio/visual aids on the kiosk, or standard care, which was the control. The kiosk provides psychological support, and promotes diabetes self-management. These kiosks were watched for 1 year and computer usage and implementation were evaluated.
Findings: One year data was available for 183 subjects, there were no significant changes in the overall health of patients when compared to the patients receiving traditional care. There were however increases in perceived susceptibility to diabetes complications in the kiosk group. These findings were higher among those who were less health literate.
Recommendations: In order to prevent an increase in perceived susceptibility perhaps use the kiosk as a prescreening, and if people feel that they are at risk of complications, allow council with a physician. Educational technologists can learn from this by taking different demographics of people into account when creating these programs.