Bridging the digital divide with data-free platforms to reach families with young children during the COVID-19 pandemic (Preprint)
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic and containment measures have severely affected families around the world. It is frequently assumed that digital technologies can supplement and perhaps even replace services for families. This is challenging in conditions of high device and data costs as well as poor internet provision and access, raising concerns about widening inequalities in availability of support and consequent effects on child and family outcomes. Very few studies have examined these issues, including in low- and middle-income countries. OBJECTIVE The main aim of the study was to gather data on the impact of COVID-19 on families of young children using an online survey. A secondary aim was to assess the feasibility of using a data-free online platform to conduct regular surveys and, potentially, to provide support for parents and families of young children in South Africa. METHODS We used a data-free mobile messenger platform to conduct a short digital survey of the impact of COVID-19 on caring for young children in South Africa. RESULTS More than 16,000 people consented to the short survey within 96 hours of it being launched. Respondents were predominantly from lower- and lower-middle classes, representing the majority of the population, with residential locations roughly proportionate to national patterns. Mothers comprised 70% of respondents and fathers 30%. Using RedCAP, we made aggregate findings in the form of bar graphs, available to participants to view and download once they had completed the survey. Participants were also able to download contact details for support and referral services at no cost. CONCLUSIONS Data-free survey methodology breaks new ground and demonstrates potential not previously considered. Reach is greater than achieved through phone surveys and some social media platforms, men are not usually included in parent surveys, costs are lower than phone surveys, and the technology allows for immediate feedback to respondents. These factors suggest that zero-rated services could provide a feasible, sustainable and equitable basis for ongoing interactions with families of young children.