Do we need to understand the technology to get to the science? A systematic review of the concept of computer literacy in preventive health programs

Objective To systematically review definitions and descriptions of computer literacy as related to preventive health education programs. Method A systematic review of the concept of computer literacy as related to preventive health education was conducted. Empirical studies published between 1994 and 2007 on prevention education programs with a computer literacy component were found using medical/health, communication, information science and education databases. Results A total of 464 citations were retrieved from 12 databases using specific search terms. Six articles met the inclusion criteria of. search terms in title, abstract and/or key words; peer-reviewed; original empirical research; and written in English. Conclusion Findings show limited and inconsistent definitions of computer literacy in the literature on computer-based prevention interventions. Without a clear construct of computer literacy, it will be difficult to determine the impact of such programs on health information seeking and, ultimately, health status.