This paper describes the development and evaluation of a tailored multimedia nutrition education program among participants in the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Supplemental Food program in North Carolina. After randomization to intervention or control groups, participants completed a baseline survey and were resurveyed immediately after program use and 1-2 months post-intervention. The interactive CD-ROM-intervention consisted of a targeted soap opera, interactive knowledge questions and feedback, and individually tailored messages about dietary behavior and strategies for change. Measures included a brief food frequency questionnaire, and questions about knowledge of low fat and infant feeding choices, self-efficacy, and stages of change. Among the 307 respondents to the follow-up survey (response rate 74.8%), intervention group members increased self-efficacy (p<.01) at immediate follow-up, and scored significantly higher (p<.05) in both low fat and infant feeding knowledge at 1-2 months compared to the control group. There was no intervention effect on stages of change or dietary behavior. Findings suggest that one dose of an interactive program impacts dietary knowledge but is insufficient to change behavior. Process measures showed generally high acceptability and satisfaction with using the computerized program, except for program length. Based on process evaluations, FoodSmart was revised to provide more user choice and flexibility while still providing tailored feedback and education. Dissemination of the revised CD-ROM (FoodSmart II) is underway, and the relative benefit of decreasing the session time while encouraging repeated program use will be evaluated. Future research will compare the relative effects of tailored print versus multimedia interventions.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, participants will be able to: 1.) Recognize the potential advantages of using tailored multimedia nutrition education in low-literacy populations; 2.) Describe ways that developers can increase the acceptability and effectiveness of nutrition multi-media interventions
Keywords: Interactive Communication, Nutrition
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.