Introduction
Recruiting schools for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) can be a daunting task, especially when these trials are designed to assess interventions for sensitive issues such as mental health in refugee children. The research article "Giving schools a nudge: can behavioural insights improve recruitment of schools to randomised controlled trials?" explores an innovative approach to tackle this challenge using the EAST framework, which stands for Easy, Attractive, Social, and Timely.
The Challenge of School Recruitment
Engaging schools in RCTs is often difficult due to the multifaceted involvement required from school personnel, including approvals from leadership, input from cultural experts, and active participation from teachers and counselors. The study highlights the need for effective strategies to recruit schools, particularly for trials evaluating mental health interventions for refugee children.
The EAST Framework
The EAST framework offers a novel approach by focusing on four principles:
- Easy: Simplify the process and communication. Make the preferred behavior the default option to encourage adoption.
- Attractive: Capture attention using visual techniques and highlight rewards for participation.
- Social: Leverage social norms by showing how others are participating.
- Timely: Engage participants when they are most receptive and highlight immediate benefits.
Application in School Recruitment
The study applied the EAST framework to recruit schools for a trial focused on trauma interventions for refugee children. The results were promising, showing a significant increase in positive responses from schools approached using the EAST framework compared to standard outreach methods.
The communication strategy was kept simple and relevant, with bold key messages and an easy reply mechanism. The use of professional design and testimonials made the communication attractive. Social proof was provided through case studies and peer endorsements, and the urgency of the project was emphasized to make it timely.
Results and Implications
Out of 96 schools contacted, those approached with the EAST framework were significantly more likely to participate. This suggests that behavioral insights can enhance recruitment strategies, making them valuable tools for researchers.
However, ethical considerations must be taken into account, ensuring transparency and informed decision-making by schools. The success of the EAST framework in this context highlights the potential for researchers to become better "choice architects" in their recruitment efforts.
Conclusion
The findings from this study provide a data-driven approach to improving school recruitment for RCTs. Practitioners are encouraged to explore the EAST framework further and consider its application in their recruitment strategies.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Giving schools a nudge: can behavioural insights improve recruitment of schools to randomised controlled trials?
