Study of an Educational Telenovela to Teach Genomics among Latino Farmworkers and Nonfarmworkers: Lessons Learned

Abstract:Background: Genomic knowledge is becoming increasingly relevant to health care. Development of linguistically and culturally appropriate educational resources for Latino adults with limited education and English skills is needed.Objectives: The effectiveness of a telenovela was analyzed and lessons learned provided.Methods: The team developed a telenovela to convey key genomics concepts and delivered it to 100 Latino farmworkers and nonfarmworkers in North Carolina. Participants completed a pretest measuring genomic knowledge and self-efficacy, viewed the telenovela, then completed a post-test. Twenty-four participants repeated the post-test 6 months later. Changes in genomic knowledge and self-efficacy were calculated.Results: Overall, genomic knowledge and self-efficacy increased significantly after viewing the telenovela. Responses to two items indicated that the emphasis on epigenetics overshadowed other genomic mechanisms. Six-month follow-up results were not significantly different from the pretest.Conclusions: Increased attention to graphic design principles, presentation across multiple sessions, and supplemental activities may increase telenovelas’ impact.