Optimizing data visualization for reproductive, maternal, newborn, child health, and nutrition (RMNCH&N) policymaking: data visualization preferences and interpretation capacity among decision-makers in Tanzania.
Glob Health Res Policy
; 4: 4, 2019.
Article
em En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-30783631
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND:
Reproductive, maternal, newborn, child health, and nutrition (RMNCH&N) data is an indispensable tool for program and policy decisions in low- and middle-income countries. However, being equipped with evidence doesn't necessarily translate to program and policy changes. This study aimed to characterize data visualization interpretation capacity and preferences among RMNCH&N Tanzanian program implementers and policymakers ("decision-makers") to design more effective approaches towards promoting evidence-based RMNCH&N decisions in Tanzania.METHODS:
We conducted 25 semi-structured interviews in Kiswahili with junior, mid-level, and senior RMNCH&N decision-makers working in Tanzanian government institutions. We used snowball sampling to recruit participants with different rank and roles in RMNCH&N decision-making. Using semi-structured interviews, we probed participants on their statistical skills and data use, and asked participants to identify key messages and rank prepared RMNCH&N visualizations. We used a grounded theory approach to organize themes and identify findings.RESULTS:
The findings suggest that data literacy and statistical skills among RMNCH&N decision-makers in Tanzania varies. Most participants demonstrated awareness of many critical factors that should influence a visualization choice-audience, key message, simplicity-but assessments of data interpretation and preferences suggest that there may be weak knowledge of basic statistics. A majority of decision-makers have not had any statistical training since attending university. There appeared to be some discomfort with interpreting and using visualizations that are not bar charts, pie charts, and maps.CONCLUSIONS:
Decision-makers must be able to understand and interpret RMNCH&N data they receive to be empowered to act. Addressing inadequate data literacy and presentation skills among decision-makers is vital to bridging gaps between evidence and policymaking. It would be beneficial to host basic data literacy and visualization training for RMNCH&N decision-makers at all levels in Tanzania, and to expand skills on developing key messages from visualizations.
Texto completo:
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Base de dados:
MEDLINE
Tipo de estudo:
Prognostic_studies
/
Qualitative_research
Idioma:
En
Revista:
Glob Health Res Policy
Ano de publicação:
2019
Tipo de documento:
Article