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The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA |
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The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA |
Sandra J. Diehl, MPH, Coastal Area Health Education Center, PO Box 9025, Wilmington, NC 28402-9025, 910-343-0161, diehl@med.unc.edu and Monique G. DeUnger, MEd, Cape Fear Community College, 411 North Front Street, Wilmington, NC 28401.
Purpose: Census and vital statistics data reflect a growing population of women and families with limited English proficiency in North Carolina. This program is creating and piloting a model curriculum that provides health information through community college English as a Second Language (ESL) classes.
Program Description: Research shows that health education concepts taught in an ESL environment can be effectively understood and retained. ESL classes are similar to health education groups, thus they are a natural next step to traditional health education in affecting knowledge, attitudes, and behavior. Furthermore, they offer a long-term solution to communication issues by teaching English skills. Expecting the Best is a curriculum that provides (1) education related to preconceptional health and wellness, and (2) complementary instruction to promote functional literacy. The North Carolina community college system is a key collaborative partner in promoting the program's long-term sustainability and replicability across the state. Other partners include state-level health representatives, educators, and technical consultants. Eight lessons have been developed and piloted to date. The project is supported by the March of Dimes.
Outcomes: We will evaluate several anticipated outcomes, including: (1) increased English proficiency; (2) increased knowledge of sound preconceptional health practices; (3) a greater sense of social support; and (4) increased knowledge of local services that meet individual needs.
Conclusion: English acquisition is a valuable commodity and influences how effectively a person interacts with providers, services, and her environment. This program provides an innovative approach to enhancing communication skills and increasing health knowledge.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant in this session will be able to
Keywords: Literacy, Health Education Strategies
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.