Assessment and Comparison of the Effects of Lecture and Pamphlet Health Education Methods in the Fields of AIDS on Knowledge and Attitude of University Students

ABSTRACT: Prerequisite for behavior modification activities to reduce the spread of AIDS, especially with regard to the lack of currently available therapies, is an increase in knowledge and attitudes of at risk groups. The most vulnerable groups against diseases such as AIDS are youths. To control and reduce the disease risk, after identifying the groups at risk and measuring their awareness, risk factors and transfer ways should be explained and transparent information on prevention be offered. This study has been undertaken with the aim of assessing knowledge and attitudes of students as vulnerable for AIDS, the impact of education and suitable method of presentation.This experimental study has been performed on 2,000 of non medical students of Estahban Azad University with simple sampling method. Data based on a questionnaire, designed by the researcher, containing 3 parts of demographic information knowledge (21 items), attitudes (11 items) were collected. In order to gauge studentsʹ knowledge and attitude, a pre test was held. Then subjects were randomized to three groups: education through lectures, pamphlets and non-intervention group. After 3 weeks a post test to determine the effect of education on studentsʹ knowledge and attitudes was held. Data using statistical SPSS software (version 18) by employing T-Test, chi square and covariance tests were analyzed.The results based on the first test were as follows: research units subjectsʹ awareness of AIDS, 19% poor, 10% were excellent .89.2% did not know the disease incubation period time.63.4% did not know that the disease can be transmitted even in the incubation period.82.7% did not know about the correct way of disease prevention. 92.3% believed that education is necessary.70.2% of students believed that a case with AIDS should not be allowed to attend classes. The results of the second phase (post -test) in the three groups contained following changes: mean score of knowledge in teaching group by lecture was: 9.7% poor, 42.4% excellent, the pamphlet group was: 13.9% poor, 36.2% excellent, and in the self-study group (no intervention): knowledge of 18.9 percent was poor and 11.9% excellent. Knowledge and attitudes of students after the lecture method in comparison with other groups significantly increased (p < 0.05).Results of a recent study showed that knowledge of students as educated ones and at risk was low. Since many of the problems of human society is due to ignorance and given the increasing prevalence of AIDS, training and continuing education programs for at risk groups to improve their awareness seems necessary.