An Evaluation of Educational Concepts – An Online Study

Abstract

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive and irreversible disease characterized by persistent airflow limitation and respiratory symptoms such as shortness of breath and cough with excessive mucus production. Educating COPD patients on their disease, is of critical importance for their empowerment and self-management, as well-informed patients can manage their disease better, reducing exacerbations and hospital admissions. This study’s goal is to explore and introduce elements that can improve education in COPD by making it more engaging and relevant. Having as a starting point the Self Determination Theory framework, the constructs of Autonomy, Self-efficacy, Relatedness were addressed and implemented to inform the development of mock-up screens of an educational module for a self-management app. A questionnaire evaluated these screens with questions about perceived Autonomy, Self-efficacy and Relatedness. 80 COPD patients participated in the online study. The results showed that the screens were well-received by the participants and satisfied their needs for Autonomy, Self-Efficacy and Relatedness, however further research is needed, to investigate the effectiveness of the proposed educational program. In conclusion, this study suggests that Self Determination Theory can provide a solid framework for the development of an educational module, intended for COPD patients.