Poor Internet Research Articles

Teaching Reading Comprehension on Narrative Texts Through Whatsapp Group Features: An E-Learning Implementation in Junior Highs Schools

The act of reading necessitates that student readers employ various cognitive and linguistic tactics to comprehend the meaning embedded within the text. Using an e-learning method through WhatsApp groups to teach reading comprehension on narrative texts can be a new breakthrough. Therefore, the present study aims to find out the effect of WhatsApp groups on narrative text in junior high school students to teach reading comprehension. To reach the research aims, the study used experimental research method. The population of this research was 330 students of grade 9 of junior high school in Pematangsiantar. The researchers divided the samples intor control group and experimental group. The data collection method used was the reading tests employed to the students which covered pre-test, treatment, and post-test. The statistical analysis employed t-test analysis. Comparison of data from both groups indicated superior performance by the experimental group. The findings unequivocally show that the experimental intervention employing WhatsApp have significant effect on students’ reading comprehension of narrative text compared to traditional approaches. While WhatsApp has proven to be an effective tool, researchers must consider the challenges of using it for reading instruction in remote areas with limited internet connectivity. Students cannot access WhatsApp-based reading lessons without internet access, though they can still search for information through text messages. Therefore, it is important to examine the limitations of utilizing WhatsApp for reading education in areas with poor internet infrastructure.

Exploring Lecturers’ Responsiveness to Teaching and Learning Using Moodle at a Namibian University

The responsiveness of lecturers at Namibian universities to Moodle as a teaching and learning platform is addressed in this paper. It observes, among other things, the increasing adoption of Moodle as an LMS in Namibian and higher education settings globally and notes that special challenges may be barring Namibian universities from harnessing Moodle to full potential; chief among these are issues concerning poor internet connectivity and limited technical support. Guided by the interpretative paradigm and anchored in the Community of Inquiry (CoI) framework, a robust and widely respected research methodology, the study explored lecturers' responsiveness to teaching and learning using Moodle at a Namibian university. The research employs a descriptive case study design and involves a purposive sample of seven faculty members from diverse disciplines. In-depth virtual interviews were used for data collection, with thematic analysis revealing key findings. Findings revealed various factors influencing lecturer responsiveness, including factors promoting blended learning and challenges hindering responsiveness. Further challenges encompass workload, course design, technical support availability, and access to learning resources. Based on the results, implications advocated for comprehensive Moodle orientation and training programmes, improved technical support, reliable internet access, and staff well-being. This research provides valuable insights for enhancing e-learning practises at a Namibian higher education institution. Future research may investigate the pedagogical aspects of Moodle usage in other contexts and extend these insights to diverse educational settings.

Exploring the association between sleep quality, internet addiction, and related factors among adolescents in Dakshinkali Municipality, Nepal.

Poor sleep quality and internet addiction are significant issues affecting adolescents globally, and Nepal is no exception. Several studies have independently assessed the prevalence and associated factors of poor sleep quality and internet addiction among Nepali adolescents and youth, but the relationship between sleep-related attributes and internet addiction remains unexplored. This study aimed to explore the prevalence and contributing factors of poor sleep quality and internet addiction along with the relationship between sleep quality-related attributes and internet addiction. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 243 adolescents of Dakshinkali Municipality, Nepal. Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and Young's Internet Addiction Test scale were used to measure sleep quality and internet addiction. Pearson's chi-square test and binary logistic regression were performed at a 5% level of significance to examine the associated factors. The prevalence of poor sleep quality was 27.6% (95% CI: 22.6-33.7) while potential internet addiction was 49.4% (95% CI: 42.0-56.7). Poor sleep quality was associated with internet addiction (aOR: 1.845; 95% CI: 1.344-3.608), poor perceived relation with teachers (aOR: 2.274; 95% CI: 1.149-4.497), and presence of family conflict (aOR: 2.355; 95% CI: 1.040-5.329). Bad subjective sleep quality (aOR: 5.613; 95% CI: 2.007-15.701), sleep disturbance (aOR: 1.781; 95% CI: 1.251-4.872), frequent daytime dysfunction (aOR: 1.902; 95% CI: 1.083-4.638), and poor perceived relation with teachers (aOR: 2.298; 95% CI: 1.233-4.285), and presence of family conflict (aOR: 1.606; 95% CI: 1.202-3.675) were associated with internet addiction. Almost a quarter of adolescents' experience poor sleep quality, while nearly half screened positive for potential internet addiction. Established interrelations between sleep quality and internet usage underscore the importance of integrated intervention approaches combining lifestyle modification and family/school support to protect and promote the mental health and well-being of Nepalese adolescents.

The use of modern e-health services including telemedicine and telepharmacy for remote patient care in Saudi Arabia

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Numerous preventive measures and regulations including electronic health (e-health) services were implemented during the coronavirus pandemic. Despite their importance, very little is known about their use. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the use of e-health application by healthcare providers (HCPs), and assess their awareness, perceptions, and practices of such services. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted during July to September 2024 using online self-administered questionnaires. Participants were selected using convenient sampling technique supplemented by snowball sampling. The calculated sample size was 218 participants. Data was collected through an online pretested English-language questionnaire. SPSS version 26 was used to analyze data; Chi-square test was used to examine the associations between HCPs’ responses regarding perceived benefits, risks, and needs related to e-health tools. RESULTS: Of the 471 survey participants who started filling out the survey, 64% (n=300) reported using e-health services since coronavirus disease and were included in the final analysis. Female HCPs used e-health applications twice as often as males, and a decline in e-health use was seen with increasing age of participants. Most common purpose for using e-health services were treatment (61%), consultations (60%), and follow up with patient (54%). The most used e-health tools were telephones or cell phones (69.0%) and WhatsApp applications (64.0%) followed by Zoom application (50.0%) and Sehhaty application. Technical problems such as poor internet connection and automatic updates of applications were reported by more than half of the users (52%). Participants reported perceived risks regarding privacy and data protection, and clinical risks associated with using e-health tools. CONCLUSION: HCPs’ positive experiences with e-health services in Saudi Arabia, valued for their cost-effectiveness and efficiency. However, patient misinterpretation, privacy risks, and clinical errors persist. Growing demand underscores the need for more explicit e-health regulations and broader professional involvement to enhance e-health service.

Impact of Internet Related Challenges on Final Year Undergraduate Students in Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto

Undergraduate research is a discussion topic at academic administrators’ conferences these days for a number of excellent reasons, often lost in these discussions, are the challenges faced as they conduct their research projects. These challenges are mostly linked with poor internet services, following this, the study examines the impact of internet related challenges on final year undergraduate students in Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto. The research Utilized a triangulation of qualitative and quantitative method of data collection: 200 hundred questionnaires were distributed to final year students in 10 departments out of which 192 were retrieved. An in-depth interview with 10 persons; 4 research project coordinators, 4 library staff and 2 MIS staff was also conducted for a deeper insight of these challenges. The study observed that, slow internet service in UDUS pose a great challenge to undergraduate final year student’s as they conduct their research projects. Finally, the study recommends the improvement of internet services in UDUS

Assessing the factors militating against the effective implementation of electronic health records (EHR) in Nigeria

This study assessed the factors militating against the effective implementation of electronic health records (EHR) in Nigeria, the computerization of patients’ health records with a lot of benefits including improved patients’ satisfaction, improved care processes, reduction of patients’ waiting time, and medication errors. Despite these benefits, healthcare organizations are slow to adopt the EHR system. Therefore, the study assessed the factors militating against the effective implementation of the EHR system, the level of awareness of EHR, and the utilization of electronic health records; it also investigated the factors militating against the effective implementation of EHR. This is a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted among members of staff of the University of Medical Sciences Teaching Hospital (UNIMEDTH). Purposive sampling was adopted to select the study participants, and a structured questionnaire was used for data collection. Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS) version 27 was used for data analysis, R and Microsoft Excel were used for data visualization. Findings revealed that the respondents had a high level of awareness of EHR with an average mean of 1.29. The study revealed a low utilization rate for EHR (mean 3.01, SD 0.115) and data storage (mean 3.00, SD 0.231), indicating major problems with EHR implementation. Financial limitations (mean 2.63, SD 0.486) and insufficient ICT resources (mean 2.62, SD 0.516) are the main challenges. The regression analysis revealed that EHR utilization is highly impacted by awareness (F = 4.26, p < 0.008), accounting for 15.1% of the variance. Governmental assistance and financial constraints showed a statistically significant negative correlation (r=−0.04, p < 0.05), while inadequate internet connectivity and epileptic power supply showed a statistically significant positive association (r = 0.1, p < 0.05). The results show that, more government support is needed to alleviate financial constraints, and a stable power supply may enhance internet accessibility. The study concluded that epileptic power supply, poor internet connectivity, financial constraints, and other factors mentioned in the study militate against the effective implementation of electronic health records. It was recommended that the management should implement electronic health records effectively for efficient and effective health care delivery.

Academic ICTs training in South Africa, Cameroon, and Nigeria. Strategies for ICT training course design

AbstractThis study examines the effectiveness of ICT training programmes for academics at selected universities in Africa, specifically in Cameroon, Nigeria, and South Africa. Using a qualitative approach, we conducted semi-structured interviews with five ICT trainers and three trainees to better understand their experiences. The findings highlight both the challenges and the strengths that could be used to improve ICT training and make it more effective and relevant to the participants. Four key themes emerge from our analysis: course objectives and content, teaching strategies, implementation challenges, and expectations/impact of the courses. The objectives of the courses vary considerably—some focus on the practical application of ICT, while others aim to improve the participants’ understanding of ICT systems. Teaching methods also differ, ranging from more traditional teaching approaches to collaborative, project-oriented methods. However, we identify significant challenges, particularly poor internet connectivity and a lack of sufficient technological resources, which affect the learning process. In addition, there is often a divergence between trainer expectations and trainee perceptions of the impact of these courses on their professional development. This study aims to contribute to the definition of strategies to improve the effectiveness of ICT training, in the African context, including Cameroon, Nigeria and South Africa.

The perception of facilitators and barriers to the use of e-health solutions in Poland: a qualitative study

BackgroundE-health entails the use of information and communication technologies in support of health and health-related activities. E-health increased significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic in Poland. The pandemic showed that the e-health environment may be an important element of the response to epidemiological challenges. Polish citizens were provided with an array of e-health tools supporting the provision of health services.MethodsThe main aim of the study was to assess the knowledge, use, and opinions about e-health solutions in Polish society. Fifty participants representing the general population took part in in-depth interviews. The interviews were conducted face-to-face with participants in their homes or via a teleconferencing platform from November 2023 to January 2024. At first, the interviewees were recruited by convenience, and at a later stage, a snowballing approach was applied. A semi-structured guide covered the knowledge about and use of e-health solutions, attitudes toward new technologies, and opinions about artificial intelligence and robots in healthcare. The interviewers interviewed 50 participants, of whom 26 were females. The interview transcriptions were analyzed with MAXQDA Analytics Pro 2022 (Release 22.7.0). An approach based on thematic analysis was employed to evaluate the interviews’ content.ResultsThematic analysis of the interviews resulted in the identification of three main themes: (1) knowledge about e-health, (2) barriers, and (3) facilitators of e-health use. Recognition of the term ‘e-health’ was limited among study participants, although they used e-health solutions frequently. The main barriers included limited digital skills and unfavorable attitudes to new technologies. Some of the participants complained about technical difficulties, e.g., poor Internet access. The main facilitators identified based on the interviews include saving time and reducing costs, as well as the ability to access medical records in one repository, as in the case of the Internet Patient Account. Some people believed e-health to be an element of progress. Overall, the study participants supported sharing their medical data for research.ConclusionsImplementing e-health solutions seems to be perceived as an inevitable consequence of technological progress. However, a lack of adequate technical skills remains one of the major obstacles to efficiently utilizing e-health’s potential.

Farmers' use of phone applications in accessing information for maize production in Kwara state, Nigeria

This study assessed the farmers' use of phone applications to access information for maise production in Kwara State. Data for the study were analysed using descriptive statistics, likert scale, and Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC). A simple random sampling was used to select 120 maise farmers from 6 villages in both Omupo and Ajase-Ipo districts. The study revealed that 83.3% of the maise farmers were males with an average of 37.6, and 83.3% were married, with an average of 12 years of schooling. The average household size was 7 persons while the number of years of experience was 11 years. The study also revealed that the most common way of accessing information was through voice calls, radio, and WhatsApp, with all the respondents choosing both of these sources. The study also showed that poor internet networks on field/farm sites, with a mean score of 2.59 were the most glaring effect of the use of phones to access information on maise production, while the high cost of mobile smart/android phones with a mean score of 2.58 was one of the mitigating factors. The major constraint of using phone features/applications to access information was that smartphones use a bunch of data bundles and cost implications with a mean score of 2.61. The results of the hypothesis showed a significant relationship between socioeconomic characteristics and farmers' use of phone applications in accessing information for maise production. Data subscriptions on customised phones can also be made affordable for farmers.

Hands-On Learning During Pandemic: Through the Lens of Socioeconomically Underprivileged Students

ABSTRACT Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, education and training faced disruption, necessitating a shift to open and distance learning (ODL) due to lockdowns and social distancing. Socioeconomically disadvantaged hospitality students encountered significant obstacles, including limited electricity, connectivity, devices, and caregiver support, potentially exacerbating educational disparities. This study focuses on hospitality students who underwent a practical-intensive food and beverage class during the pandemic. Interviews were conducted to explore students’ ODL challenges, experiences returning to campus, and resilience in self-directed learning. Thematic analysis revealed three main themes and seven sub-themes. It was found that poor internet access and inadequate self-training tools hindered practical skill acquisition. Short video tutorials were proven effective, fostering students’ self-directed learning and video editing skills. Suffice to say, educational tools like short videos and social media assist underprivileged students’ practical skill development, thus bridging the digital divide in education despite the challenges.

Virtual Teaching and Learning Activities in the Schools during COVID-19 Period: Use and Effectiveness

This study investigates the state of online teaching and learning in schools during the COVID-19 pandemic, exploring challenges, strengths, weaknesses, and strategies to promote participation among students and teachers. Employing a mixed research method with an embedded design, both quantitative and qualitative data were gathered to provide a comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon. The study reveals widespread familiarity with online tools among educators and learners, despite initial hurdles such as poor internet connectivity and limited technology proficiency. However, shortcomings in student engagement and participation were observed, with many students exhibiting passive behavior during online classes. Concerns were also raised regarding the reliability of online assessments, highlighting the need for robust evaluation methods. Various obstacles to effective implementation, including internet accessibility and distractions at home, were identified. Recommendations for future practice include addressing internet access issues, providing LMS training for teachers, and promoting a conducive learning environment. This study offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities of online education during emergencies, guiding efforts to enhance its effectiveness in the future.

Towards a more equitable education: a lens into EFL teachers’ pedagogical barriers in online assessments

ABSTRACT Online learning and assessment have become a major concern for educators in the field of education due to the many challenges they present. The coronavirus lockdown has profoundly affected the instruction and evaluation processes for English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the perspectives of EFL teachers on the pedagogical barriers in online assessments. The study employed a mixed-methods approach, involving 28 participants from four different educational settings. During the qualitative phase, in-depth discussions were conducted using the Google Meet app, allowing participants to explore the pedagogical barriers associated with online assessments. The results of the qualitative analysis identified five themes of pedagogical barriers under the central category of fairness and equity: feedback, poor internet speed, learners’ lack of digital literacy, online cheating, and instruction. A ranking scale was subsequently used to assess the perceived importance of these categories. The findings of this study have significant implications for EFL teachers, policy makers, and educational assessment organisations. It provides insights that can inform the development of strategies and policies to address the pedagogical barriers associated with online assessments. By recognising and addressing these challenges, educators and policymakers can enhance the quality and fairness of online assessments, ensuring a more equitable learning experience for EFL students.

Adults who learn online: Exploring the online learning readiness of nontraditional undergraduate students in a Ghanaian university

Despite the growing population of non-traditional (mature) students in online learning programmes in universities across the world, less is known about the online learning readiness of this unique category of students. Drawing on qualitative online survey with 128 non-traditional students enrolled in distance education programmes at the University of Ghana, this paper investigates their online learning readiness and solicits their perspectives on ways of improvement. The findings reveal that while mature students exhibit lower levels of online learning self-efficacy, they demonstrate a strong sense of self-directedness in their studies. Furthermore, poor internet infrastructure and network connectivity, a lack of social engagement in the online learning environment, and limited knowledge on digital tools impacted on students' online learning readiness. In response, students recommended enhanced technical support and training, improved peer and tutor interactions, increased student support services, and better management of work-life balance. The study recommends for universities to address these specific needs to optimize the online learning experience and outcomes for mature students.

Students’ Perceptions of Their Speaking Practice with Foreign Interlocutors via Online Platforms

As online platforms become more widely accessible, English learners have greater opportunities to practice speaking with foreign interlocutors, though many remain hesitant due to a lack of confidence in their speaking abilities. This study examines the perceptions of 107 first-semester English learners at a private university who were assigned to use SCMC platforms like Free4Talk, InterPals, and HelloTalk to engage in English conversations with foreign interlocutors. The aim was to understand how these platforms supported speaking practice and identify any challenges faced. Data were collected through a questionnaire that included Likert-scale items and open-ended questions. The results revealed that 78% of students had positive perceptions, indicating that the platforms facilitated their English-speaking practice through real-time communication. However, they also reported technical issues, such as poor internet connectivity, and challenges with engagement, including difficulty finding consistent conversation partners. The study recommends further research into long-term language learner experiences and an exploration of platform features that could enhance English-speaking practice.

Research utilization competency development in the health workforce pipeline: Design and formative evaluation of learning objectives for health professions students

BackgroundIt is widely recognized that use of research evidence to guide health policy and practice could lead to adoption of life-saving interventions and more effective resource allocation. However, the skills around research utilization are often assumed and rarely taught, particularly in low- and middle-income country contexts. Here we present a set of competency areas and learning objectives developed for institutionalization of research utilization across health professions schools in Liberia. Ahead of implementation and to gauge their perceived value and utility, a participatory formative evaluation was undertaken.MethodsFocus group discussions were held to gain feedback on a set of research utilization learning objectives and the proposed implementation approach. Focus group participants were drawn from faculty and students at the University of Liberia College of Health Sciences (ULCHS), which houses the country’s only medical and pharmacy schools, along with schools of public health and nursing and midwifery. ULCHS serves an essential role in the health workforce pipeline.ResultsFindings from the focus group discussions identified a limited understanding of research utilization at the ULCHS but a demand for stronger understanding of research methodology and evidence. Participants identified clear examples of how the skills represented in the learning objectives could help specifically their personal careers as well as more broadly the health sector of Liberia. Potential challenges were noted around the incorporation of research utilization learning objectives into existing courses and tended to be logistical (for example, poor internet connectivity and low digital literacy) or around lack of foundational understanding and skills (for example, lack of experience with literature searches and reviews). However, the approach was generally perceived as contextually aware since it would not add new courses, which come with credit fees and extra time commitment, and would focus on practical skills-building rather than theoretical content.ConclusionsIntegrating research utilization learning objectives into existing curricula in health professions schools is expected to enhance uptake and application of research evidence in the Liberian health sector, as students emerge from the workforce pipeline to fill positions in clinical and policy settings. The success of the approach will warrant ongoing evaluation, along with mentorship of faculty, to increasingly incorporate skills and content of local relevance into courses.

An Online Knowledge-Based Support System

Technology advances have touched all the fields of human life, and the educational system is not an exception. Students in Nigerian universities experience challenges in their early or later stages of school due to a lack of a knowledge-based support system. This results in massive failure and confusion in later days in school. A knowledge-based online support system has been developed and implemented in this paper to improve academic support services for students and faculty members in the university. The need for such a support system stems from the various academic problems that the students often experience, including a lack of answers to certain questions, which can result in academic failure, taking too long to graduate, or dropping out of the university altogether. The system is web-based; therefore, users can access the necessary information when needed, and, in most cases, it solves common academic issues in a short time using the web. Following the Agile software development methodology and employing a client-server architecture, the system was designed in a user-friendly and efficient manner. Highlights of the system include an extensive database of FAQs, real-time interactive services, and multi-typed query handling. Testing phases were performed and integrated, and modular testing showed that the system worked as intended, providing valid inputs and also flagging any invalid inputs without causing the system failures, and performing provisions for user corrections. The results suggest that the online support system could enhance the academic environment at AE-FUNAI and therefore would benefit students and staff members alike. Nevertheless, certain limitations still prevail, such as poor internet access, which calls for constant enhancement and provision of support to the system.

Designing User Experience for a Mobile Application for Agricultural Product Marketing Using the Human-Centered Design Method

This research explores the application of Human-Centered Design (HCD) in developing a mobile application for agricultural product marketing, aiming to address critical challenges faced by farmers, such as limited market access and inconsistent internet connectivity. By involving farmers and consumers in each stage of the design process, the application was iteratively improved based on user feedback. The study implemented low-fidelity and high-fidelity prototyping, with five iterations of user testing to enhance usability, navigation, and accessibility. Results show a significant increase in task success rates, user satisfaction, and application efficiency, mainly by including offline features for users in areas with poor internet infrastructure. The study also highlights the effectiveness of HCD in adapting technology to local conditions, offering a practical solution that supports the digital transformation of the agricultural sector, particularly in rural areas. This research contributes to the literature by demonstrating that HCD can be effectively used to develop user-friendly applications that meet the specific needs of the agricultural community

STUDENTS' PERCEPTION TOWARDS THE USE OF GOOGLE FORM IN ENGLISH ONLINE LEARNING

Due to covid-19 there has been a change from traditional learning to online learning methods. Common obstacles in online learning are lack of internet packages, causing poor internet connections and special obstacles such as lack of understanding of learning materials, lack of focus and difficulty in carrying out tasks. For that we need media that can affect learning, especially learning English. One of the media that is easy to use for learning English is Google Form. Because the use of the media is relatively new, so the researcher wants to know how students perceive in using Google Form for students' English learning. This study used a qualitative narrative research design. The data collection in this study are using questionnaire interview. The results of the study revealed that students had positive perceptions of the perceived usefulness factor, the ease of use factor, the use intention factor, and the attitude factor towards learning. The result is that students have a positive impact on the use of Google Form.

BUILDING FINANCIAL BRIDGES THROUGH DIGITAL CHANNELS AMONG THE YOUTH OF HIMACHAL PRADESH

Digital platforms have altered business, communication, and client engagements. These platforms, which boost efficiency and innovation across industries, are vital to the global economy. Digital financial services have substantially boosted financial inclusion, yet consumers still struggle to access, afford, and feel comfortable utilizing them. Cyber security, digital literacy, and regulatory frameworks must be addressed to maximize financial inclusion. The most marginalized communities, who often face additional barriers to financial services, need targeted measures. Digital platforms can improve financial inclusion in Himachal Pradesh, notably by overcoming geographical and infrastructural barriers, according to studies. However, digital literacy, infrastructure, and technology access must be improved to realize this promise. Further research and policy attention are needed to distribute digital financial services benefits across the state. Despite advances, the studies reveal that particular steps are needed to address remaining issues, such as cyberspace risks and digital literacy gaps. This study answers specific questions about how familiar youth are with digital platforms, how they use them, their key experiences, opportunities, and threats, and how different digital platforms are contributing to financial inclusion among youth in Himachal Pradesh. This study is specific to Himachal Pradesh using quantitative and qualitative methodologies to collect data from a random sample of 836 respondents using online surveys, interviews, and focus groups. Data has been synthesized using descriptive statistical toolslike frequency distribution, percentage, arithmetic mean and standard deviation. After then, demographic characteristics, particularly age of the respondents has been used to cross-tabulate the associations. The hypotheses were examined using Chi-Square Test of Independence and ANOVA/F-test. The study reveals that the modern digital channelshave an important contribution in promotion of financial inclusion among youth, particularly for those aged 18-24 years, who are the most engaged and benefit the most from digital financial services. Despite high levels of satisfaction with the speed, convenience, and security of these platforms, challenges such as poor internet connectivity, security concerns, and lack of awareness persist, especially in rural areas. While digital platforms have improved financial access for all age groups, the study suggests they are not yet a complete replacement for traditional banking services, indicating the need for further improvements in infrastructure, financial literacy, and trust to attain financial inclusion to the fullest extent among the youth.

The Use of Telehealth Technology in the Medical Management of Adults with Intellectual Disability: A Scoping Review.

Background: Individuals with intellectual disability (ID) experience substantial inequalities and barriers accessing health care despite requiring constant accessibility to healthcare providers as they are more likely to die from avoidable causes of death than those without ID. Telehealth technologies have the capacity to improve access to health providers and health information and could greatly reduce morbidity and mortality rates in people with ID. This study aims to explore the use of mobile health technology in the medical management of adults with intellectual disability. Methodology: PubMed, IEEE Explore, ACM, and Scopus databases were examined to extract peer-reviewed articles published from January 2000 to January 2022. Original research, published in English and focused on the use of telehealth technologies in the medical management of intellectual disability were deemed eligible. A narrative synthesis of the results was completed, structured around the characteristics of telehealth technologies used and the outcomes of the studies. Results: Thirteen of 1008 reviewed articles were considered eligible for inclusion. Most of the studies used videoconferencing platforms for real-time telehealth, while others focused on symptom or medication monitoring applications. The evidence supports the feasibility, potential effectiveness and satisfaction of using telehealth to manage intellectual disability among adults despite accessibility issues including poor internet connectivity and poor knowledge of technology which may limit its use. Conclusion: The use of telehealth was feasible, acceptable and potentially effective for the management of ID among adults though the varied methodology of included studies maybe inadequate. A more structured methodology will be useful in future studies.