Mixed-Methods Evaluation of Mobile Health Adaptive Learning Training for Pediatric Healthcare Workers in Tanzania

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PROJECT ABSTRACT Preventable illness in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) contributes to millions of pediatric deaths each year. Evidence-based guidelines (EBG) created by the World Health Organization are shown to improve outcomes for pediatric patients in LMICs and reduce this amenable burden of disease. Utilization of existing EBG is highly variable among healthcare workers (HCWs), however, and contributes to increased mortality. Mobile technology has transformed many aspects of public health, but is yet to be fully leveraged for HCW training. Adaptive learning, which uses electronic algorithms to deliver individualized content to learners, promotes increased learning efficiency in high-resource settings and could strengthen mobile training platforms in LMICs. To evaluate the efficacy of these tools in addressing the existing educational gap in LMICs, we designed an adaptive electronic learning curriculum based on existing EBG for the management pediatric illness in LMICs. We hypothesize that an adaptive electronic learning curriculum will increase HCW knowledge of EBG for the care of serious illness in children and that knowledge of learner perceptions will inform the creation and implementation of future electronic learning interventions. We will conduct a mixed-methods study among a cohort of pediatric HCWs in Mwanza, Tanzania. Quantitative study design will be prospective randomized parallel-group double- blinded with an allocation ratio of 1:1. All participants will complete an electronic learning curriculum on priority content areas as defined by local stakeholders. Participants in the intervention arm will receive an adaptive electronic learning curriculum, and controls will receive a non-adaptive electronic learning curriculum. Knowledge acquisition will be measured using standard mean effect size comparing pre- and post-curriculum knowledge assessments. Semi-structured and group interviews with a random sample of quantitative participants will be used to determine HCW habits and perceptions relating to electronic learning interventions. Successful completion of the proposed research will serve as the foundation for the development of innovative solutions and low-cost implementation strategies aimed at improving the care of seriously ill children worldwide.