Background
In 2016, the Food and Drug Regulations were amended to include nutrition labelling improvements to the Nutrition Facts Table and the list of ingredients. Health Canada developed an online course to inform health intermediaries (Registered Dietitians, Exercise Specialists, and other health professionals) and educators of the most current nutrition labelling changes.
Objective
The objective of this research was to conduct user experience testing of this course to obtain feedback for improvement before it is launched widely.
Study Design, Setting, Participants
This mixed-methods research included 2 components: online testing and discussion groups. Online testing included pre-post nutrition labelling knowledge quizzes, an evaluation survey on participants’ overall satisfaction, structural organization, and quiz relevancy. Additionally, 5 discussion groups were conducted to obtain in-depth course feedback, overall and individual module suggestions, and comments on client activities to further improve the course structure and content.
Measurable Outcome/Analysis
All discussion groups were audio-recorded and transcribed, and text was coded by 2 different researchers using NVivo Qualitative Software Tool. Quantitative and qualitative analysis were conducted to synthesize findings and extract key themes.
Results
Ninety-five health intermediaries and educators completed the online testing. Of these, 21 individuals also participated in discussion groups. Findings showed over 90% of participants were satisfied with the course and felt it had job relevance. Participants highlighted both positive and negative features including specific content issues such as the need to clarify or simplify complex content points. Feedback also included challenges with structural and technical issues with navigating the course modules and interactive components.
Conclusions
Findings from this study will inform content and structural improvements to the Nutrition Labelling online course. This research demonstrates the importance of user experience testing in ensuring a course that provides information that is usable, relevant, and accessible to the target audience.
Funding: Health Canada.
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Copyright
© 2020 Published by Elsevier Inc.
