Randomized trial evaluating computer-based sun safety education for children in elementary school.
Buller, M. K., Kane, I. L., Martin, R. C., Giese, A. J., Cutter, G. R., Saba, L. M., & Buller, D. B., (2008). Randomized trial evaluating computer-based sun safety education for children in elementary school. Journal of Cancer Education, 23, 74-79.
Background. Interactive multimedia programs derived from the Sunny Days, Healthy Ways (SDHW) sun safety curriculum were evaluated with children aged 5-13.
Methods. A randomized pretest to posttest 3-group study was conducted with 871 students in 12 primary schools in the western United States comparing computer programs alone, teacher-led presentation, or both combined.
Results. Computer programs with teacher-led presentation improved knowledge over either treatment individually (P = .001). The combination improved self-reported sun protection in lower but not higher grades over teacher-led presentation (P = .005).
Conclusions. Computer- based sun safety instruction used with teacher instruction in primary schools may improve sun safety, especially with younger children.
