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Control of Eating Behavior Using a Novel Feedback System
Published on: May 8, 2018
Using synchronous distance-education technology to deliver a weight management intervention
Carolyn Dunn1, Lauren MacKenzie Whetstone2, Kathryn M Kolasa3
1Department of Youth, Family, and Community Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC.
Objective:
To compare the effectiveness of online delivery of a weight management program using synchronous (real-time), distance-education technology to in-person delivery.
Methods:
Synchronous, distance-education technology was used to conduct weekly sessions for participants with a live instructor. Program effectiveness was indicated by changes in weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and confidence in ability to eat healthy and be physically active.
Results:
Online class participants (n = 398) had significantly greater reductions in BMI, weight, and waist circumference than in-person class participants (n = 1,313). Physical activity confidence increased more for in-person than online class participants. There was no difference for healthy eating confidence.
Conclusions And Implications:
This project demonstrates the feasibility of using synchronous distance-education technology to deliver a weight management program. Synchronous online delivery could be employed with no loss to improvements in BMI, weight, and waist circumference.
