Multimedia computer-assisted instruction for carers on exercise for older people: development and testing

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Health Informatics
• Educational Technology

Background:

• Healthy ageing is a global public health priority.
• E-health promotion offers opportunities for widespread education.
• Technology can support public health targets for ageing populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop multimedia computer-assisted instruction for informal carers.
• To evaluate the content validity of the developed instruction.
• To assess user difficulty and satisfaction with the computer-assisted instruction.

Main Methods:

• Systematic development in four phases: literature review, expert refinement, multimedia learning theory-based production, and user testing.
• Content identification and algorithm design referencing cognitive theory.
• Testing for content validity, user difficulty, and user satisfaction.

Main Results:

• The computer-assisted instruction underwent iterative development and refinement.
• Confirmed content validity of the educational tool.
• Users reported high satisfaction and minimal difficulty using the instruction.

Conclusions:

• This multimedia computer-assisted instruction is a viable e-health initiative.
• Effectively educates informal carers of older people.
• Demonstrates the potential of technology in supporting healthy ageing initiatives.