AIDSImpact.com:: - Santa Fe, USA 2011

Abstract #75 - Beta-testing and field-testing an internet based HIV prevention program for Ugandan youth
Authors: Presenting Author: Dr. Sheana Bull - Colorado School of Public Health
Additional Authors: Dr. Michele Ybarra, Ms. Tonya Prescott, Ms. Ruth Biringi,
Aim: To describe the procedures used to beta test and field test an internet based comprehensive sexuality program designed for delivery to secondary school youth in a high HIV prevalence country.
Method / Issue: Although we have evidence that Internet based HIV and STI prevention programs have efficacy, the majority of this research has been done in developed Western nations. We conducted four activities with secondary school students in Mbarara, Uganda, to ensure that once our Internet based program was developed that it would be feasible to implement: a computer skills test, a beta-test of program functions, a series of focus group discussions to ascertain likely engagement with program elements and a field test to complete selected modules.
Results / Comments: Computer skills among the intended audience, secondary school students, are generally lower than has been observed in US studies. While students could navigate through the beta-version of the program, navigation was greatly facilitated by having less text and clear directions on each page. Participants in focus groups were most engaged with gaming elements of the program. In field testing, it became evident that having portable computers with access to a car battery for electricity was critical.
Discussion: While it seems feasible to delivery and engage youth in an Internet based comprehensive sexuality education curriculum in East Africa, it also is clear that alterations for the setting will be required to translate learnings from US technology based HIV prevention programs to a resource poor setting. To realize the promise of scalability for these programs, adapting to a local Ugandan environment is feasible.
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