Objective: To describe the process of using technology in a prospective study
Design: Prospective study with a six-month follow-up
Sample: Individuals with MS (n = 237)
Setting: Cyberspace
Method: The steps in the development of a prospective study using multiple technologies included the following: a) Collaborative development of a web site with computer experts, b) Integration of the principles of research into technological approaches, c) Posting on appropriate web sites to invite potential participants to contact the researcher, d) Use of a patient registry database to invite participants to a data collection web site, e) Use of e-mail and telephone to conduct a 6-month follow-up, and f) The import of web site data into SPSS for analysis.
Findings: Collaboration with computer experts is necessary when conducting research using technology. The integration of research principles into technological approaches is essential for IRB approval. Explicit instructions at an appropriate reading level are necessary especially for those who are willing to participate, but have limited computer skills. A greater percentage of males participate in MS research conducted using technology as compared to mailed surveys.
Conclusions: Multiple technological approaches are effective in conducting nursing research and are able to reach a diverse population that is unrestricted geographically. Those who have physical limitations can readily participate in a process they consider hope-generating, as indicated by their unsolicited remarks about participating in an online study. One limitation to consider when using technology is that the sample will only include those who have access to computers and the skill to navigate the internet and use e-mail.
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