Tablet Versus Quick Response Code: Difference in Research Participation Rates?

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Digital Health
• Research Methodology

Background:

• Immunocompromised populations require safe research methods, especially during pandemics.
• Adolescents and young adults with cancer (AYAs) are underserved in research, facing high unmet needs.
• Digital and internet-based methods can minimize risks for cancer patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare participation rates of AYAs using two digital survey administration methods: tablet versus QR code.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of different digital survey delivery modes for AYA cancer research.
• To identify optimal methods for engaging AYAs in psychosocial research.

Main Methods:

• AYAs with cancer were randomly assigned to complete an online survey via tablet or QR code.
• Participation rates were compared between the tablet and QR code groups.
• This study assessed digital survey administration in a vulnerable patient population.

Main Results:

• The overall participation rate was 22.9%.
• The tablet group accounted for 75% of completed surveys, while the QR code group accounted for 25%.
• Trends indicated higher engagement with the tablet method compared to QR codes.

Conclusions:

• Survey administration method significantly impacts AYA research participation.
• Sanitized tablets may enhance engagement more than QR codes for AYAs in cancer research.
• Choosing appropriate digital survey methods is crucial for successful recruitment and data collection in AYA oncology studies.