Usability testing of iCHAMPSS: A web-based decision-support system for adopting and implementing evidence-based sexual health programs in schools

Background. Evidence-based sexual health education programs (EBPs) can reduce sexual risk behaviors in adolescents. However, schools often face challenges implementing EBPs (e.g., uncertainty around policies, perceived lack of parental support, difficulty navigating the process of getting EBPs into schools). Online decision support offers a promising approach to mitigate adoption and implementation barriers.

Purpose. We conducted usability testing of a web-based decision support system (iCHAMPSS) to guide community stakeholders in the adoption, implementation, and maintenance of sexual health EBPs in school districts.

Methods. We tested iCHAMPSS over a three-week period among school health stakeholders (administrators, teachers, parents, nurses, and school health advisory council members) across Texas (n=16). Participants used all iCHAMPSS system components comprising over 60 decision tools (e.g., form templates, fact sheets, video-based training, testimonials) and other features including a discussion board and staging algorithm. Online surveys assessed usability parameters (e.g., acceptability, ease of use, credibility, motivational appeal).

Results. All participants rated iCHAMPSS as acceptable, easy to use, accurate, and credible, indicating they would use it again and would recommend it to others. Most participants rated the iCHAMPSS decision tools high on acceptability and ease of use (73.3–93.8% agreement) and indicated an increase in confidence to adopt, implement, and maintain EBPs in their districts after using iCHAMPSS (68.8-75%).

Conclusions. The iCHAMPSS decision-support system received highly favorable ratings by potential users of sexual health EBPs and represents an innovative web-based method for assisting community stakeholders with the often challenging process of adopting, implementing, and maintaining EBPs in schools.