A mixed-methods evaluation using low-income adult Georgians' experience with a smartphone-based eLearning nutrition education programme

Objective To understand low-income adults' expectations and experiences using an innovative smartphone and theory-based eLearning nutrition education program, entitled Food eTalk. Design Longitudinal mixed-methods single case study including a series of focus group and individual interviews, demographic and Internet habits surveys, and user-tracking data. Interviews were transcribed verbatim, analyzed using the constant comparative method and digitalized using Atlas.ti. Descriptive statistics were analyzed for demographics and user-tracking data. Setting Community-based locations including libraries, public housing complexes, schools, safety-net clinics and food pantries. Subjects Low-income Georgian adults aged ?18 years (n 64), USA. Results Participants found Food eTalk easy to navigate and better designed than expected. Primary themes were twofold: (i) motivation to engage in eLearning may be a formidable barrier to Food eTalk's success but improved program content, format and external incentives could mitigate this barrier; and (ii) applying knowledge to change nutrition-related behavior is challenging. To encourage engagement in eLearning nutrition education, program format should highlight interactive games, videos, be short in length, and feature content that is relevant and important from the perspective of the priority audience. Examples of these topics include quick and easy recipes, chronic disease-specific diet information and tips to feed 'picky' children. Additionally, external incentives may help mitigate barriers to healthful eating behavior and increase engagement in the program. Conclusions The findings suggest eLearning nutrition education programs are best designed to match low-income adults' typical smartphone habits, include content considered particularly relevant by the intended audience and highlight solutions to barriers to healthful eating. © The Authors 2018.