Strategies for Encouraging Participation in an Online Walking Program Community
Author Information
Author(s): Eysenbach Gunther, Frost Jeana, Meier Andrea, Resnick Paul J, Janney Adrienne W, Buis Lorraine R, Richardson Caroline R
Primary Institution: University of Michigan
Hypothesis
How can we effectively encourage participation in an online community for a walking program?
Conclusion
The study found that strategic design choices and staff involvement can significantly enhance participation in an online community.
Supporting Evidence
- Concentrated recruitment increased community activity.
- Staff seeding of forums helped create an active appearance.
- Contests effectively motivated participation among members.
- Responses to posts encouraged further contributions.
Takeaway
This study shows that making an online community look busy and fun can help more people join in and share their experiences.
Methodology
The study involved implementing an online community for participants in a walking program and analyzing strategies to increase engagement.
Potential Biases
Potential bias from staff involvement in posting and moderating discussions.
Limitations
The study was limited to a specific walking program and may not be generalizable to other contexts.
Participant Demographics
Participants were adults enrolled in a walking program, with varying levels of prior online community experience.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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