Abstract
Issue
Health education of adolescents requires digital communication channels besides the traditional interpersonal setting. Use of e-learnings can be beneficial in multiple aspects when targeting positive health behavior change.
Description
A complex, school-based health education program is operated by Semmelweis University in a North-Hungarian town, Balassagyarmat, given, that the vast majority of students have proper internet access. Ongoing peer education is completed by e-learning modules in order to improve the continuity of the program, repeat key statements, deliver more information and create a private channel to discuss intimate issues. The online system was built on novel educational techniques in gamification and rewarding to enhance motivation and engagement of participants. The same e-learning modules are available for all students from different type of education and sociocultural background. We try to assess if this concept provides equality.
Results
41 multimedia e-learning modules consisting of 12 types of interactive game-like activities has been developed in 10 topics. Each of them are used by around 60-70% of the participants of the program (about 240 students per year). High school students showed slight difference from vocational school students in activity and in performance. According to their feedback, pupils welcome this channel regardless to their type of education.
Lessons
While developing the digital health education program based on new pedagogical methods, the concept was not modified for students of different school types, but all of them participated in the same educational and rewarding system. We believe, that the project trends to maintain equality.
Key messages
Multimedia digital modules are favorable in health education for adolescents. Health education statements can be the same for students of different educational settings.
Effects of Tailored Health Education Program on Overweight Elementary School Students’ Obesity-Related Lifestyle: A School-Based Interventional Study
