Gamified micro-learning to improve knowledge about child abuse for early childhood professionals

iLookOut for Child Abuse: Micro-learning to Improve Knowledge Retention

Not applicable Interventional Milton S. Hershey Medical Center · NCT04324619

This study tests a fun online learning program to see if it helps early childhood professionals remember more about spotting and reporting child abuse.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment6000 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 100 Years
SexAll
SponsorMilton S. Hershey Medical Center Academic / other
Locations1 site (Hershey, Pennsylvania)
Trial IDNCT04324619 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This randomized controlled trial investigates the effectiveness of a gamified micro-learning platform designed to enhance knowledge retention about child abuse among early childhood professionals. Participants will complete an interactive online learning program followed by brief, engaging exercises on their smartphones to reinforce and expand their understanding of child abuse reporting. The study aims to measure knowledge decay over time and assess the feasibility of this two-phase intervention in preparing professionals to identify and report suspected child abuse. By evaluating the impact of these micro-learning activities, the trial seeks to improve the reporting rates of suspected abuse cases.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals aged 18 and older who work or volunteer at childcare facilities in Pennsylvania.

Not a fit: Patients who do not work or volunteer at childcare facilities or are under 18 years of age may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly enhance the ability of early childhood professionals to identify and report child abuse, ultimately leading to better protection for vulnerable children.

How similar studies have performed: Preliminary data from related studies suggest that similar educational interventions have been successful in improving knowledge and reporting rates among early childhood professionals.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* At least 18 years of age
* Works or volunteers at a childcare facility in Pennsylvania

Exclusion Criteria:

* Younger than 18 years of age
* Does not work or volunteer at a childcare facility in Pennsylvania

Where this trial is running

Hershey, Pennsylvania

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Child Abuse
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.