Evaluation of the acceptability of a CD-ROM as a health promotion tool for Inuit in Ottawa

Background

There are few health promotion tools for urban Inuit, and there is a specific dearth of evaluations on such tools.

Objective

The current study used a community-specific approach in the evaluation of a health promotion tool, based on an urban Inuit community’s preferences of health knowledge sources and distribution strategies. In partnership with the Tungasuvvingat Inuit Family Health Team in Ottawa, a CD-ROM was developed featuring an Inuk Elder presenting prenatal health messages in both Inuktitut and English. Also, relevant evaluation materials were developed.

Design

Using a mixed methods approach, 40 participants completed interviews prior to viewing the CD-ROM and participated in a focus group at follow-up. Questionnaires were also completed pre- and post-viewing to assess changes between expectations and reactions in order to document acceptability.

Results

Significant increases were found on satisfaction, acceptability of medium and relevance of content ratings. Qualitative findings also included (a) interest, uncertainty and conditional interest prior to viewing; and (b) positive evaluations of the CD-ROM.

Conclusions

This suggests that CD-ROM technology has the potential for health promotion for urban Inuit, and the community-specific evaluation approach yielded useful information.