 | The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA |
|
| The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA |
Carolyn Dunn, PhD, NC Cooperative Extension Service, NC State University, Box 7605, Raleigh, NC 27695, 919-515-9142, Carolyn_Dunn@ncsu.edu and Cathy Thomas, MAEd, Physical Activity and Nutrition Unit, North Carolina Division of Public Health, 1915 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1915.
SyberShop is an interactive multimedia CD for young people ages 13-19 focusing on physical activity and healthy eating. SyberShop combines pictures, sound and the latest computer technology to educate students about nutrition and physical activity. The CD can be used individually or in the classroom as a supplemental teaching tool. Components of SyberShop are: Virtual Cafeteria, get in line, get your tray and choose your food; Virtual Fast Food Court, choose your favorite meal from one of five popular restaurants and learn about its nutritional content; Building Blocks, interactive food guide pyramid, physical activity pyramid and food label; Body Dimensions, what’s your body type, media influence on body image, and sensible weight management guidelines; and Be Active, the importance of being physically activity, barriers to physical activity, and choosing an activity that is right for you. SyberShop was tested in the target population for effectiveness and ease of use. Pre and post tests were administered to students who used SyberShop in the classroom, as well as students who received traditional nutrition lecture. Results reveal an increase in the knowledge scores in students using the computer-based instruction. NC Cooperative Extension Agents, local public health educators and local school instructional specialists plan for the use of SyberShop in their community including training teachers on how to use SyberShop in the classroom. SyberShop is currently being used across North Carolina and in 14 other states.
Learning Objectives:
Keywords: Technology, Adolescent Health
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.