Assessing Digital Literacy in Web-Based Physical Activity Surveillance: The WIN Study

Abstract

Purpose.

Investigate relations between demographic characteristics and submission method, Internet or paper, when physical activity behaviors are reported.

Design.

Observational.

Setting.

Metropolitan.

Subjects.

Adult women (N = 918) observed weekly for 2 years (total number of weekly reports, 44,963).

Measures.

Independent variables included age, race, education, income, employment status, and Internet skills. Dependent variables were method of submission (Internet or paper) and adherence.

Analysis.

Logistic regression to analyze weekly odds of submitting data online and meeting study adherence criteria. Model 1 investigated method of submission, model 2 analyzed meeting study's Internet adherence, and model 3 analyzed meeting total adherence regardless of submission method.

Results.

Whites, those with good Internet skills, and those reporting higher incomes were more likely to log online. Those who were white, older, and reported good Internet skills were more likely to be at least 75% adherent online. Older women were more likely to be adherent regardless of method. Employed women were less likely to log online or be adherent.

Conclusion.

Providing participants with multiple submission methods may reduce potential bias and provide more generalizable results relevant for future Internet-based research.