Improving breast self-examination training by using the 4MAT instructional model

Women were taught breast self-examination (BSE) two different ways using the same material. The 4MAT presentation (N = 49) was directed to four learning styles and both brain hemispheres; the American Cancer Society (ACS) presentation (N = 45) used a traditional lecture/discussion format. A control group (N = 58) was untrained. The mean age of the Cooperative Extension Home Demonstration Club participants was 57 years. A questionnaire, which was given before training, immediately after training, and 3 months later, assessed knowledge of breast cancer and BSE, confidence in performing BSE, and frequency of BSE. ANCOVAs and t tests showed that, compared with the ACS presentation, the 4MAT presentation produced better immediate acquisition and better 3-month retention of both knowledge and confidence. Both 4MAT and ACS participants were statistically superior to the control group on all three dependent variables, both in acquisition and 3 months later. The 4MAT instructional model is recommended for BSE and other health education presentations.