Available Until 10/31/2028
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Promoting Health Literacy Through Easy-to-Read Materials*


For more information or to schedule this course, contact: Kelli Ham < kkham@library.ucla.edu >.

This face-to-face and online class covers the frequent disconnect between information providers and information seekers. The success of "plain language" initiatives and the importance of text, type, graphics, "white" space, and layout for maximum readability will be covered. Several tools used to evaluate the readability of print materials and patient literacy levels (e.g., Fry, SMOG, REALM, TOFHLA) will be introduced.  Participants will have the opportunity to review print materials and websites for their adherence to easy-to-read principles.

Site URL: https://nnlm.gov/classes/healthliteracy

Learning Objectives

  1. Understand various definitions of health literacy and its importance to patient care

  2. Identify factors which may contribute to low levels of health literacy

  3. Be aware of the role of cultural competency in health literacy

  4. Use basic principles of "plain language" to review, evaluate, select, and/or rewrite materials which adhere to easy-to-read principles

  5. Identify key players in health literacy awareness and advocacy

 

Agenda 

4 hour class
Welcome and Introductions - (15 minutes)
What is Health Literacy? - (45 minutes)
Internet Resources - (45 minutes)
Break - (15 minutes)
Writing/Examining materials - (45 minutes)
Assessment Exercise - (30 minutes)
Testing for Readability/Testing Exercise - (30 minutes)
Wrap-up/Questions/Evaluations - (15 minutes)

 

Facility Requirements  
Computers (individual, if possible), Internet access, projection screen for instructor

MLA CE Credits: 3, 4, or 6