Health education using microcomputers: Initial acceptability

A group of conversational computer programs has been developed to increase public awareness of good health habits. These include two programs on specific health topics, the risk factors for coronary heart disease, and desirable weight and weight control. Two other programs promote more general health concerns. These programs were evaluated by 420 noncomputer-oriented volunteers. Data were collected on both the relative popularity of each module and its helpfulness. The programs covering a broad range of health topics were more popular than the ones aimed at specific topics, and differences were found in helpfulness as well. Overall, however, the programs were acceptable to this general population. The rapidly decreasing cost of microcomputer systems thus may make them a cost-effective supplement to more traditional health education models.