Insights Into Educator-Learner Communication via the Roter Interaction Analysis System to Improve Health Education in...

Area of Science:

• Educational Psychology
• Health Communication
• Pedagogy

Background:

• Traditional Moroccan health education relies on educator-centered methods, potentially hindering student engagement and learning.
• Effective health education is crucial for lifelong well-being, necessitating improved pedagogical approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze educator-student communication patterns in Moroccan elementary school health education.
• To assess the impact of communication strategies on student engagement and learning outcomes.

Main Methods:

• An exploratory quantitative study utilized the Roter Interaction Analysis System (RIAS) to analyze audio recordings of health education sessions.
• Data from 135 students (ages 7-12) were collected, coded in AtlasTi, and analyzed using SPSS.

Main Results:

• Interactive teaching methods, including simplification and scaffolding, significantly increased student engagement and knowledge gains (p < 0.001).
• Directive teaching limited participation, while interactive sessions boosted engagement and post-test scores.
• Smaller class sizes and older students demonstrated higher engagement levels.

Conclusions:

• Findings highlight the need for educator training in interactive communication strategies to improve health education effectiveness.
• Adapting teaching methods based on class size and student development is essential for enhancing learning and equity.
• Implementing targeted training and small-group sessions can directly improve health education outcomes in schools.