BRIDGING THE DIGITAL DIVIDE: A PUBLIC HEALTH APPROACH TO INCREASING ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH LITERACY Starleen Maharaj-Lewis, BA, Stacey Denham, MSW, MPH, AE-C, Maureen Lichtveld, MD, MPH Global Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA A basic “Introduction to Computers” curriculum for seniors was created. The curriculum focused on developing a baseline of computer knowledge, while increasing environmental health literacy by focusing content on disaster preparedness. Comprehensive four-hour classes covered hardware, software, and virtual components in a participatory approach to elicit a more interactive response from participants. Participants were recruited from three communities in Louisiana- a rural bayou community in Houma, an urban community in Algiers, and an urban community in central New Orleans over a three month period from October-December 2015. Inclusion criteria consisted of individuals aged 55 and older with little to no previous knowledge of computer skills or access to a computer. Homework assignments, self-reported evaluations, pre- and post- tests were administered to gauge and measure perceptions of increased computer abilities and skills. The post-test and class evaluation were accomplished after the completion of course instruction to measure and rate increased skill levels based upon course objectives, instructional time and content (Rate of Knowledge Gained and Overall Self Evaluation tables). To increase computer and environmental health literacy amongst senior citizens living in vulnerable communities along the Louisiana Gulf Coast through application of a basic computing class with emphasis on disaster preparedness. BACKGROUND PURPOSE METHODS CONCLUSION Persons residing in disaster-prone communities must have basic computing skills in order to have an awareness of specific exposures and their potential health effects. Based on participant feedback, significant recurring themes revealed that terminology is important in curriculum design, presentation style is important in an age group where physical disabilities are present, and hands on interactive interventions enhance cognitive capability. This presentation fully covers a curriculum design conceptualizing hardware, software, and virtual components of basic computing skills with a focus on disaster planning. Pre- and post- test evaluations reveal increased user abilities, online presence, and lessons learned. Responses from the Overall Self Evaluation indicate the course successfully addressed personal and environmental barriers that affected increased user ability and online presence. The experiential learning style allowed for a more participatory classroom environment, providing older adults more benefit through computing usage and navigation.1-5 A total of 42 registrants participated in a series of classes held at three different regional locations- library, wellness center, and a senior living center. The curriculum incorporated experiential learning, plain language, and discussion for each component. In response to a perceived necessity with the development of emergency plans amongst vulnerable populations in the Gulf South region, a tailored curriculum was developed. Environmental Health Literacy was introduced through the development of personalized disaster preparedness plans. Data obtained from the pre- and post- test responses are indicative that a basic computing class for seniors significantly relate to better student achievement, suggesting attributes of increased confidence with contemporary computing skills and environmental health literacy while developing emergency response plans for residents in vulnerable areas. On the Rate of Knowledge Gained graph, responses measured a 65% improved knowledge in hardware, software, and virtual components. On the self administered course self evaluation, 74% of participants indicated they gained comprehension of basic computing skills. DISCUSSION/RESULTS REFERENCES 1. Goodwin CL. Use of the computer and the internet by well older adults. Activities, adaptation & aging. 2013;37(1):63-78. 2. Cotten SR, Anderson WA, McCullough BM. Impact of internet use on loneliness and contact with others among older adults: Cross-sectional analysis. Journal of Medical Internet Research. 2013;15(2):15-15. 3. Shapiraa N, Baraka A, Gala I. Promoting older adults’ well-being through internet training and use. Aging & Mental Health. 2007;Volume 11(5):477-484. 4. Cresci MK JP. Bridging the digital divide for urban seniors: Community partnership.. Geriatric Nursing. 2010;31(6):455-463. 5. H. White, E. McConnell, E. Clipp, L. G. Brancha, R. Sloane, C. Pieper & T. L. Box. A randomized controlled trial of the psychosocial impact of providing internet training and access to older adults. Aging & Mental Health. 2002;6(3):213-221. There is a link between anxiety and intimidation surrounding computer usage and navigation among the senior population.1-3 According to the 2012 Census, there are approximately 13,000 senior residents living in southeast Louisiana without access to computers or on-line navigation. Studies show that increased awareness of computer skills and an online presence may improve self-efficacy in using computers, technology, and the internet.1,4 In response to the perceived need to develop computing skills, a tailored curriculum was created to increase computer literacy in the context of developing disaster preparedness plans. Indications of a tailored curriculum consisting of hybrid learning methods is a key driver proliferating familiarity and confidence with increased computing skills, significantly related to better student achievement.1-5