Improving knowledge retention to prevent child abuse
Official title: iLookOut for Child Abuse: Micro-learning to improve knowledge retention
Funded at Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr · NIH-10983374 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new online training program called iLookOut for Child Abuse, designed to help early childhood professionals better recognize and report suspected child abuse in a fun and engaging way, so they can keep kids safe while reducing false alarms.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Hershey, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $386,975 |
| NIH project number | 3R01HD088448-08S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10983374 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include early childhood professionals and educators who work with children aged 0-5 years.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not involved in early childhood education or do not work with young children may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the ability of early childhood professionals to identify and report suspected child abuse through an innovative educational intervention called iLookOut for Child Abuse. The program utilizes a multimedia, online platform that engages users with interactive video storylines, allowing them to learn about child abuse in an emotionally and cognitively stimulating way. By incorporating gamification and experiential learning, the intervention aims to improve knowledge retention and behavior change among participants. The ultimate goal is to increase the reporting of suspected child abuse cases while minimizing inappropriate reports.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better identification and reporting of child abuse, ultimately protecting vulnerable children and improving their outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success with similar educational interventions aimed at improving reporting and awareness of child abuse among professionals.
Where this research is happening
-
Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr
Hershey, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Levi, Benjamin H. — Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr
- Study coordinator: Levi, Benjamin H.
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.