Biology Reference
In-Depth Information
7.4. Simulating SMS Text Messaging for Training
A Web-based application was designed to simulate a cell phone interface with
SMS text messaging's 160 character limitation. The Web-based application
uses a PHP/HTML design to facilitate the modular approach of the appli-
cation and extend portability for the targeted study participant. A MySQL
database collects the actual task performance measures while the delivery
of both the crisis scenario (including individual episodes) and the plain
language training are presented with multimedia movie clips of streaming
video and voiceovers.
Speech acts and plain language protocols are one mechanism that could
improve information exchange and were utilized for this research. Two-way
communication exchange, especially when timeliness of information is at
stake, can benefit from role-based agents that intercept a message and serve
as a triage to the message recipient. The queuing of messages between a
sender and receiver ultimately become event logs of written communication
and can also serve as an enabler for agent-based information exchange (Zhu
2006; Zhu, Zhou, and Seguin 2006).
In our research, e-readiness encompasses both the message form (con-
tents) and the ability to use the technology to send and receive the mes-
sage. Increasing readiness of information communication technologies (ICT)
through training and practice places emphasis not only on the communica-
tion protocol but also on the message adaptiveness for the crisis. The ability
to communicate using more than one medium is essential, and data redun-
dancy is often encouraged (Austin 1962). In a crisis, one communication
medium cannot be predetermined. Most devices used with biosurveillance
and early detection have text-based capabilities.
Interactive text-based training and simulations can aid individual respon-
ders based on their role and level of experience. For example, increased use of
SMS text messaging has demonstrated high reliability for one-way communi-
cation. For the spring 2007 study, the use of SMS text messaging was proposed
as the lowest-common denominator to reach community responders who
have limited resources for mobile information technology and who find them-
selves responding in the field when a crisis occurs. Findings revealed the impor-
tance of a baseline to establish different levels of plain language training and
also to introduce training for situation awareness, which was not addressed
in the spring 2007 study. Moreover, training is needed before varying the
multiple modes of communication and before varying mobile communica-
tion options. Mobile technologies have become an integral part of everyday
life for many people, providing ubiquitous information access, entertainment,
and helping people stay connected to work, friends, and families.
While the focus of this research is on the message exchange with a mobile
device, the message form is the focus of this discussion rather than the device
itself. Te'eni (2001) notes that effective communication could be adapted for
