Adapting an evidence-based iterative development process using technology is more effective in improving the knowledge of youth on substance use.
Ray AE and team has conducted a study to determine the effectiveness of an e-learning program in preventing the adolescent substance use by increasing the media literacy skills than face-to-face learning programs.
The study involved a face-to-face Youth Message Development (YMD) program, and the e-learning version of YMD, named as REAL media program for spreading the information regarding the substance use. The primary objective of the study was to adapt the YMD curriculum to a self-paced, interactive, electronic-learning (e-learning) format and expand its content to cover alcohol, cigarettes, and other substances by adolescents. The secondary objective was to test the feasibility of an e-learning approach. Both the programs has conveyed the message regarding the healthy living and incorporated the learning-approaches required for healthy living.
End users feedback was gathered from the face-to-face and web-based programs. High self-efficacy in applying skills was seen in the web-based program than face-to-face program.
The study concluded that iterative build process involving the end user from the outset resulted in an overall successful technology-driven adaptation of an evidence-based curriculum.
Reference
Ray AE, Greene K, Hecht ML, Barriage SC, Miller-Day M, Glenn SD, Banerjee SC. An E-Learning Adaptation of an Evidence-Based Media Literacy Curriculum to Prevent Youth Substance Use in Community Groups: Development and Feasibility of REAL Media. JMIR Form Res. 2019 May 9;3(2):e12132.