Acceptability of a Web-based attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder scale (T-SKAMP) by teachers: a pilot study.
BACKGROUND
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that physicians obtain information directly from teachers or other school professionals as a part of the periodic assessment of children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This can be difficult for physicians, however, and despite the guideline, treatment decisions are often made without this key information. Hence, alternative means of obtaining data need to be considered. One alternative is using a Web-based instrument as described in this paper.


OBJECTIVE
This pilot, qualitative study examined teacher acceptability of a Web-based version of an ADHD rating scale known as Swanson, Kotkin, Agler, M-Flynn and Pelham Scale-Teacher Version (T-SKAMP) for weekly monitoring of ADHD-impaired children relative to paper-based scales.


METHODS
Following a 2-month clinical trial using the Web-based T-SKAMP, we conducted a qualitative semi-structured interview known as the Teacher Preference Interview (TPI) to 19 teachers.


RESULTS
Seventeen of 19 teachers (89.5%) rated Web-based T-SKAMP to be easier, shorter, simpler, and more informative than paper-based scales. They further perceived this Web-based scale to be a time saver (both long and short term) and more flexible, efficient, and effective to use than paper-based scales.


CONCLUSIONS
Teachers participating in this pilot study generally preferred a Web-based mechanism of relaying classroom behavioral data on ADHD-impaired children. Web-based T-SKAMP was found to be efficient and effective, and has the potential to improve communication between teachers and physicians. Enhanced communication and cooperation can facilitate increased adherence to established ADHD management guidelines and ultimately benefit affected children.
Bhatara
Vinod S
VS
Department of Psychiatry, Center for Rural Health Improvement, University of South Dakota School of Medicine, Sioux Falls, SD 57105, USA. abhatara@aol.com
Vogt
H Bruce
HB
Patrick
Sarah
S
Doniparthi
Lakshmi
L
Ellis
Roland
R
D001289:Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / Q000175:diagnosis*; D001290:Attitude; D002648:Child; D003625:Data Collection / Q000379:methods*; D005178:Faculty; D005194:Family Practice; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet; D007400:Interprofessional Relations; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011581:Psychological Tests; D013023:South Dakota