Evaluation of an Interactive E-learning Environment to Enhance Digital Health Literacy in Cancer Patients
This study is creating and testing an online learning tool to help people with cancer become better at finding and understanding health information on the internet. The main goal is to see if using this online tool helps people improve their skills more than if they don't use it, or if they just read the same information in a PDF. Around 660 people with different types of cancer will take part. They will be split into different groups by chance. Some will use the online tool, some will get a PDF, and some will be in a control group that receives no new tool. Participants will answer questions about their online health skills at the start, and then again after 2 weeks and 8 weeks to see if their skills have improved.
At a glance
What is this study about?
When you're dealing with cancer, you probably look for information about your condition online. The internet can be a great place to find out more, but it can also be tricky to know which information you can trust. There's a lot out there, and not all of it is accurate or complete. This can sometimes make it harder for people to make good decisions about their health if they come across confusing or incorrect details.
That's why this study aims to create and test a special online learning tool. This tool is designed to teach people with cancer how to better find reliable health information online and how to understand it properly. The researchers want to know if using this tool can really help people improve these important 'digital health literacy' skills. They'll compare it to getting the same information in a different way or receiving no special help.
To do this, about 660 people living with cancer will join the study. They will be put into different groups by chance. Some will use the new online learning tool, others will get the same information but in a simple PDF document, and a third group won't receive either of these. By comparing these groups, the researchers hope to learn whether the interactive online tool is the best way to help people become more confident and capable when looking for health information online.
Key takeaways
- This study evaluates an online tool for cancer patients to improve finding reliable health info online.
- It aims to see if the tool helps more than a PDF or no intervention.
- Around 660 cancer patients will participate, divided into groups by chance.
- Participants will complete questionnaires at the start, 2 weeks, and 8 weeks.
- The study lasts 8 weeks and is conducted entirely online.
- Only those who understand German and can use digital devices can join.
Who may be eligible?
To be part of this study, you need to have a diagnosis of cancer. It's really important that you can understand and speak German, because all the study materials, including the online tool and any questions, will be in German only.
You also need to have access to a digital device like a smartphone, tablet, computer, or laptop, and be comfortable using it to connect to the internet. This is because the study involves using online materials. Finally, you must agree to take part in the study.
There are a few reasons why you might not be able to join. If your cancer or another illness significantly affects your thinking or memory, you unfortunately can't take part. Also, if you find it difficult or are unable to use a digital device like a computer or smartphone, this study wouldn't be suitable for you.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Do you have a cancer diagnosis?
- Do you understand and speak German fluently?
- Do you have a smartphone, tablet, or computer with internet and can you use it?
- Are you able to think clearly and understand instructions for the study?
- Are you 18 years old or older?
What does participation involve?
If you choose to take part in this study, you won't need to visit a clinic or hospital. Everything will be done online from your own home. Depending on which group you're in, you will either use the special online learning tool or be given a PDF document with information on how to find reliable cancer details online.
Before you start, you'll answer some questions about your skills in finding and understanding online health information. You'll then use the learning tool or read the PDF. You'll answer the same set of questions again after 2 weeks and then a final time after 8 weeks. This will help the researchers track any changes in your skills. The total time you'd be involved in the study, from your first set of questions to your last, would be 8 weeks.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- University Medical Center Hamburg-EppendorfVerified postcodeHamburg, Germany· Recruiting
Common questions
What is 'digital health literacy'?
It means how well you can find, understand, and use health information you find on the internet.
Do I need to be good with computers to join?
You need to have a digital device (like a phone or laptop) and be able to use it to get online, but the study will help you improve your skills.
Will I get medical advice during the study?
No, the study focuses on teaching you how to find and understand general health information, not on giving you personal medical advice for your condition.
How long will I be involved?
From start to finish, your participation in the study will last for 8 weeks.
What happens after the study ends?
The researchers will look at all the information to see if the online tool was helpful. They may then share what they learned to help more people in the future.
How to find out more
Lukas Lange-Drenth, Dr.
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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