Readability, User-Friendliness, and Key Content Analysis of Newborn Hearing Screening Brochures

Authors

Nannette C. Nicholson, University of Arkansas for Medical SciencesFollow
Samuel R. Atcherson, University of Arkansas at Little RockFollow
Patti F. Martin, Arkansas Children's HospitalFollow
Mary Gunn Spragins, The University of Mississippi Medical CenterFollow
Lauren Schlagenhauf, University of Arkansas for Medical SciencesFollow
Richard I. Zraick, University of Central FloridaFollow

Abstract

Readability, user-friendliness, and key content are important components of newborn screening brochure design. Health information at a sixth grade or below reading level, designed for ease of navigation, with easily identifiable “action steps” can help adults with limited literacy skills find, understand, and use health information. The purpose of this study was to quantify the readability, user-friendliness, and key content components of newborn hearing screening brochures. Five readability formulae (FRE, F–K GL, FOG, FORCAST, and SMOG) were used to estimate reading levels of English language EHDI brochures (N = 48). Twenty-three participants assessed brochures for user-friendliness. Three participants assessed brochures to determine if key content elements were included and if so, the ease of locating them. Readers are provided with simple steps to follow during brochure design to maximize the message in parent education materials. This study forms the framework for quality improvement efforts and research-to-practice initiatives in the field.

Recommended Citation

Nicholson, N. C. Atcherson, S. R. Martin, P. F. Spragins, M. Schlagenhauf, L. & Zraick, R. I. (2016). Readability, User-Friendliness, and Key Content Analysis of Newborn Hearing Screening Brochures. Journal of Early Hearing Detection and Intervention, 1(1), 66-77. DOI: https://doi.org/10.15142/T36C7N

Retrieved from https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/jehdi/vol1/iss1/9