Feasibility of Using Global Positioning Systems (GPS) With Diverse Urban Adults: Before and After Data on Perceived Acceptability, Barriers, and Ease of Use

作者：Zenk Shannon N^*; Schulz Amy J; Odoms Young Angela M; Wilbur JoEllen; Matthews Stephen; Gamboa Cindy; Wegrzyn Lani R; Hobson Susan; Stokes Carmen

来源：Journal of Physical Activity and Health, 2012, 9(7): 924-934.

• environment
• physical activity
• perceptions

Background: Global positioning systems (GPS) have emerged as a research tool to better understand environmental influences on physical activity. This study examined the feasibility of using GPS in terms of perceived acceptability, barriers, and ease of use in a racially/ethnically diverse sample of lower socioeconomic position (SEP). Methods: Data were from 2 pilot studies involving a total of 170 African American, Hispanic, and White urban adults with a mean (standard deviation) age of 47.8 (+/- 13.1) years. Participants wore a GPS for up to 7 days. They answered questions about GPS acceptability, barriers (wear-related concerns), and ease of use before and after wearing the GPS. Results: We found high ratings of GPS acceptability and ease of use and low levels of wear-related concerns, which were maintained after data collection. While most were comfortable with their movements being tracked, older participants (P < .05) and African Americans (P < .05) reported lower comfort levels. Participants who were younger, with higher education, and low incomes were more likely to indicate that the GPS made the study more interesting (P < .05). Participants described technical and wear-related problems, but few concerns related to safety, loss, or appearance. Conclusions: Use of GPS was feasible in this racially/ethnically diverse, lower SEP sample.

• 出版日期2012-9