P166 Exploratory Test of ASA24 to Collect 24-Hour Recalls in the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program

Background Interest exists to standardize and improve data collection and coding in Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) classes by switching from a paper-and-pencil 24-hour recall to the Automated Self-Administered 24-hour Recall (ASA24); however, it is important to address the feasibility of putting this into practice. Objective To do an initial pilot test to compare the use of ASA24 with paper-and-pencil recalls with EFNEP participants. Study Design, Settings, Participants Ten EFNEP paraprofessional educators were recruited from three states and trained to use ASA24. Participants were randomized at the class level to complete either ASA24 or a paper-and-pencil recall at program entry and the alternate method at exit. Participants (n = 37 entry, n = 30 exit) and paraprofessionals completed questionnaires about usability, confidence, preference, and perceived accuracy at entry and exit. Seven paraprofessionals participated in online focus groups or qualitative interviews. Measurable Outcome/Analysis Questions about usability, confidence, and perceived accuracy were scored on a Likert scale from strongly disagree (1) to strongly agree (5); scores were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Qualitative interviews and focus groups were transcribed, and two researchers coded and developed themes using inductive content analysis. Results Average scores for usability, confidence, and perceived accuracy were very similar for ASA24 and the paper-and-pencil recall. When asked which method they preferred, both the participants and paraprofessionals were evenly split. In the qualitative interviews, almost all of the paraprofessionals felt that ASA24 would result in more accurate recalls. The major barriers mentioned were lack of computer literacy of some participants and problems with internet connectivity. Conclusion ASA24 may be comparable to the paper-and-pencil recall in usability, confidence, perceived accuracy, and preference for both EFNEP participants and paraprofessionals. Qualitative analysis indicates that ASA24 may work better with participants who are computer literate, and may yield more accurate results. Funding USDA.