NCJ Number
189425
Journal
Journal of Drug Education Volume: 30 Issue: 4 Dated: 2000 Pages: 399-421
Date Published
2000
Length
23 pages
Annotation
This article reports on the methodology and findings of a process and outcome evaluation of the use of an interactive multimedia software program in preventive alcohol education for young adults.
Abstract
The interactive CD-ROM software builds on key themes related to student behavior and interests as well as the position of higher educational institutions. The software is based on an integrated theory of behavioral change used in other arenas of health promotion and prevention. The choice to use interactive software for a program to reduce alcohol abuse reflected a belief by its producers that use of this medium as a persuasive educational tool offers distinct advantages over traditional prevention education formats and materials. The three factors related to behavioral change addressed in the software are self-efficacy in maintaining personal control and safety while using alcohol, attitudes and related expectations regarding the physiological and behavioral consequences of alcohol consumption, and peer norms regarding alcohol consumption. The short-term evaluation results were based on a three-group design that included the CD-ROM group, an alternative education group, and a non-intervention group. All students who participated in the evaluation were asked to complete a pretest and posttest questionnaire that asked questions about their expectations regarding the consequences of alcohol use, perceived personal skills with alcohol, perceived peer norms, and intentions to perform behaviors related to personal control and safety. The findings showed that compared to alternative alcohol education and a non-alcohol education group, students who used the interactive computer lesson reported learning more about dose-response and ways to intervene with friends who abuse alcohol. The paper concludes with a discussion of the import of this technology for informing students about the consequences of alcohol use and the utility for higher education institutions of using this technology in an era when pressures have increased for due diligence regarding student safety, but with few additional institutional resources. 3 tables and 60 references