1. Demonstration of Smartphones as Viable Tools for Adolescent Substance Use Surveillance.
- Author
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Riccio KK, Rawlins DB, Talbot JN, and Boyd CJ
- Subjects
- Adolescent, Computers, Humans, Nevada, Surveys and Questionnaires, Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice, Smartphone, Substance-Related Disorders epidemiology
- Abstract
Background : Electronic platform surveys are ideal for self-administration in adolescent populations, as nearly all adolescents in the US report using or having access to smartphones. This technology-savvy population seems prepared to graduate away from paper surveys. Despite predicted advantages of using smartphones for data collection, there is a surprising lack of data regarding the use of this mode for surveillance of substance use trends among adolescent populations. Objectives : The objective of this study was to evaluate completion rates, times, and responses of high school students taking the Secondary Student Life Survey: Nevada (SSLS:NV) on their own personal smartphones compared to provided computers or tablets. Methods: The SSLS:NV is a web-based survey designed to assess adolescent beliefs, attitudes, and use-trends surrounding substance use. The SSLS:NV was self-administered via self-selected device (personal vs. provided) within one class period to approximately one thousand 9th-12th grade students in December 2016. Data was collected and analyzed to compare outcomes by computer, tablet, or smartphone. Statistical analysis was performed in SPSS 23.0 using χ
2 or Fisher's exact test for categorical data and one-way ANOVA for continuous data. Results : SSLS:NV completion times averaged 21 min overall ( p = .193). Differences were seen with completion rates of 86% smartphone 94% tablet, and 95% computer ( p < .001), while responses to lifetime substance use were similar across all groups. Conclusions/Importance : The current study provides proof of concept that personal smartphones are effective in achieving more comprehensive adolescent substance use surveillance within a relatively short amount of time, while retaining robust response rates.- Published
- 2020
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