Electronic learning tools and distance boost delivery of HIV prevention by NGOs

Research based HIV prevention initiatives can be effectively delivered by non governmental organisations (NGOs) in resource limited settings using an interactive electronic learning tool and tailored consultative supportive, according to a study published in the September 24^th edition of Science. The study also found that this approach helped NGOs to effectively disseminate information to other NGOs.

Investigators were concerned about the difficulties encountered by HIV prevention agencies in resource poor countries in accessing research based HIV prevention initiatives.

Eighty-six leading HIV NGOs in 79 countries in Africa, central and eastern Europe, Latin America, and central Asia were selected to deliver a popular opinion leader (POL) HIV prevention initiative.

The NGOs were then randomised into two groups. NGOs in the control group were provided with a computer, subsidised internet access, access to a website to network with other HIV NGOs, and briefing papers on making effective grant applications, evaluation, needs assessment and organisational management.

The experimental study group of NGO was also provided with these resources, and also received a transfer programme delivered via a compact disc (CD). Support was also provided by behavioural science consultants who were familiar with the region and its culture.

The main outcome of the study was the percentage of NGOs in each arm which developed a new POL intervention, or adopted an existing education programme along POL lines. The number of POL core elements in interventions was assessed by investigators.

Of the 42 organisations randomised to receive support, 37 (88%) used the CD. The average total duration of CD use was just under seven hours and 69% of the CD contents were viewed. The print curriculum was read by all the experimental NGOs. The total time spent reading it was a mean of 15 hours and 93% of the total content was consulted.

The CD was evaluated as “very useful” by 72% of NGOs and the paper curriculum received this assessment by 88% of NGOs. Distance consultantions were found to be “very useful” by just over two thirds of organisations.

In total 18 of the 42 NGOs in the experimental arm (42%) and seven of the 41 controls (17%) had developed a new POL initiative (p = 0.022). An existing initiative was adapted to include POL elements by 55% of the experimental NGOs and 27% of the controls (p = 0.008), and nearly twice as many experimental NGOs (64% versus 34%) developed or modified a programme to include the disseminated model (p = 0.006).

Experimental NGOs also included more POL core elements in their interventions than the controls (p = 0.04).

What’s more, the investigators found that the NGOs provided with the CD and support networked with other NGOs and shared information about POL initiatives. In total 23 (55%) of the experimental arm of the study either gave copies of the CD or the paper print out to other NGOs; twelve (29%) held training sessions; and 19 (45%) met with their governments to discuss the POL prevention approach.

“Our findings show that advanced communication technologies can link service providers worldwide with training, technical assistance, and consultation in the use of new approaches originating in the research arena”, conclude the investigators.