The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #58551

Kathleen Young, PhD, Health Education Department and Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, University of New Mexico, Johnson Center, Frontier Street, Albuquerque, NM 87112, (505)292-3704, kjyoung@unm.edu

This session will present the results of a study (May, 2002) conducted at the University of New Mexico that examined the effects of anonymous synchronous computer conferencing (ASCC) in a human sexuality course. The primary goal of this study was to determine student preference for anonymous synchronous computer conferencing (ASCC) in comparison to the traditional face-to-face lecture when learning about sensitive course content (STDs/HIV) in a human sexuality course. The potential benefits of this learning medium (ASCC) were explored through five CMC characteristics: anonymity, self-disclosure, active learning, peer interaction and support, and access to health information. Student preferences were examined globally (overall) as well as for the perceived CMC characteristics. Two of the five CMC characteristics (self-disclosure and anonymity) were specifically tested to examine the effects associated with ASCC in comparison to the traditional face-to-face lecture. A secondary goal was to examine students’ perceptions of the attributes (relative advantage, levels of complexity, and observability) of innovation associated with ASCC in comparison to the traditional face-to-face lecture.

The experimental study provided a unique opportunity to focus on the issues and needs of student learning, especially in the context of a highly sensitive university course. The questions that will be posed in this session are intended to challenge educators, allied academic professionals, and researchers to provide additional learning media not only in the discipline of health education and promotion but also in all areas of learning. The findings and contributions of the study offer a strong foundation for future CMC/ASCC intervention development.

Learning Objectives:

At the conclusion of the session, participants will be able to: 1.) Recognize the importance of providing students with additional learning media (e.g. WebCT). 2.) Recognize the significance of the use of anonymity specifically when teaching highly sensitive course content. 3.) Apply the design of the ASCC within their course (s).
• Understand the results and findings of the study and its' implications in health education.

Keywords: Health Education, Telecommunications

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
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.