Comparing the impact of an icon array versus a bar graph on preference and understanding of risk information: Results from an online, randomized study.

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Version: Final published version
License: CC BY 4.0
Serval ID
serval:BIB_97F0F997D0A6
Type
Article: article from journal or magazin.
Collection
Publications
Institution
Title
Comparing the impact of an icon array versus a bar graph on preference and understanding of risk information: Results from an online, randomized study.
Journal
PloS one
Author(s)
Scalia P., Schubbe D.C., Lu E.S., Durand M.A., Frascara J., Noel G., O'Malley A.J., Elwyn G.
ISSN
1932-6203 (Electronic)
ISSN-L
1932-6203
Publication state
Published
Issued date
2021
Peer-reviewed
Oui
Volume
16
Number
7
Pages
e0253644
Language
english
Notes
Publication types: Comparative Study ; Journal Article ; Randomized Controlled Trial
Publication Status: epublish
Abstract
Few studies have examined the best way to convey the probability of serious events occurring in the future (i.e., risk of stroke or death) to persons with low numeracy or graph literacy proficiency. To address this gap, we developed and user-tested a bar graph and compared it to icon arrays to assess its impact on understanding and preference for viewing risk information.
To determine the: (i) formats' impact on participants' understanding of risk information; (ii) formats' impact on understanding and format preference across numeracy and graph literacy subgroups; (iii) rationale supporting participants' preference for each graphical display format.
An online sample (evenly made up of participants with high and low objective numeracy and graph literacy) was randomized to view either the icon array or the bar graph. Each format conveyed the risk of major stroke and death five years after choosing surgery, a stent, or medication to treat carotid artery stenosis. Participants answered questions to assess their understanding of the risk information. Lastly, both formats were presented in parallel, and participants were asked to identify their preferred format to view risk information and explain their preference.
Of the 407 participants, 197 were assigned the icon array and 210 the bar graph. Understanding of risk information and format preference did not differ significantly between the two trial arms, irrespective of numeracy and graph literacy proficiency. High numeracy and graph literacy proficiency was associated with high understanding (p<0.01) and a preference for the bar graph (p = 0.01).
We found no evidence to demonstrate the superiority of one format over another on understanding. The majority of participants preferred viewing the risk information using the bar graph format.
Keywords
Adult, Comprehension, Data Display/adverse effects, Data Display/standards, Female, Health Education/methods, Humans, Male, Middle Aged, Risk Reduction Behavior
Pubmed
Web of science
Open Access
Yes
Create date
02/08/2021 14:24
Last modification date
08/08/2024 6:37
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