Developing Health and Family Planning Print Materials for Low-Literate Audiences: A Guide.
Margot L. Zimmerman · 1989
The Program for Appropriate Technology in Health (PATH) developed a manual as a guide to the production of printed materials in family planning and health for low-literate people. Since 28% of the world population is illiterate and 60% of these are women a need exists for these materials. The use of properly designed printed materials can be helpful to health workers in dealing with their clients. The materials are created by the identification of the needs of the target group. The materials can be produced in many forms such as booklets inserts posters fliers coloring books comic books and flip charts. They are easy to store and need no special equipment for use. They can be used to reinforce oral presentations and as reference materials. They can also be used to reach secondary groups such as friends relatives and neighbors. They are appropriate for local production and can be fitted to particular needs. Studies have shown that these materials improve user comprehension and act as a motivator to improve literacy skills. They can also reduce fears and reassure clients that health and family planning methods are safe and helpful. The guide explains how to analyze groups to determine their specific needs and how to formulate work plans to distribute time and financial resources. It also shows methods to get information from target groups and to better assess their needs. A detailed process is given in developing messages and how to communicate them clearly. Additional information particularly appropriate for low and illiterate people is given. A method for distribution of materials and how to train health personal to use them effectively with their patients is shown. Also ways to evaluate the use of the materials and their effect on target groups is illustrated.