The Influence of Lecture Methods and Discussion Methods on the Knowledge and Attitudes of Pregnant Women about the Prevention of Macrosomia at the Siabu Health Center, Mandailing Natal Regency in 2016
Introduction
Macrosomia, a condition where a baby is born with a body weight of more than 4 kg, is a serious health problem that affects both mothers and infants. Counseling is a crucial effort to increase the knowledge and attitude of pregnant women in preventing macrosomia. This study, conducted at the Siabu Health Center in Mandailing Natal Regency in 2016, aimed to compare the effectiveness of lecture methods and discussion methods in increasing the knowledge and attitudes of pregnant women about the prevention of macrosomia.
Background
Macrosomia is a significant health concern that can lead to various complications for both mothers and infants. The condition is often associated with gestational diabetes, which can have severe consequences if left untreated. Counseling is a vital component of preventing macrosomia, as it educates pregnant women on the risks and consequences of the condition. Effective counseling can lead to a significant reduction in the incidence of macrosomia, thereby improving the health outcomes of mothers and infants.
Methodology
This study employed an experimental quasi approach with a pretest-posttest design. Two groups of pregnant women, totaling 15 people each, were divided into lecture groups and discussion groups. The criteria for selecting participants in the two groups were the same. Data analysis was carried out using T-Independent statistical tests with a significance level of 5%.
Results
The results of this study showed that both lecture methods and discussion methods had a positive influence on the knowledge and attitudes of pregnant women about macrosomia. However, the discussion method proved to be more effective than the lecture method.
Changes in Knowledge
The discussion group showed a greater increase in knowledge about macrosomia, with an average value of 4.33, compared to the lecture group that had an average value of 3.58. This indicates that the discussion method provides a better and deeper understanding of macrosomia.
Changes in Attitude
The discussion group also showed a greater increase in attitude towards macrosomia prevention, with an average value of 13.20, compared to the lecture group that had an average value of 8.62. This suggests that discussions are more effective in motivating and encouraging changes in behavior among pregnant women in applying macrosomia prevention knowledge.
Why is the Discussion Method More Effective?
Several factors contribute to the effectiveness of the discussion method in increasing knowledge and attitudes about macrosomia prevention.
Active Interaction
The discussion method encourages active interaction between participants and speakers, allowing participants to ask questions, argue, and share experiences. This helps in understanding the material better and easier to remember information.
Collaborative Learning
Discussion involves participants in the learning process, making them feel more involved and responsible for studying the material.
Internal Motivation
Discussion can trigger participants' internal motivation to change behavior, as they feel involved in finding solutions and macrosomia prevention strategies.
Recommendation
The results of this study highlight the need to increase community participation in efforts to prevent macrosomia. The Siabu Health Center can increase coaching and provide health education about the prevention of macrosomia to the community.
Importance of Health Education
Effective health education not only provides information but also builds awareness and encourages positive changes in behavior. Increased knowledge and attitudes of pregnant women about macrosomia through discussion methods are an important step in prevention efforts. An effective health extension program can help reduce the risk of macrosomia and improve the health of the mother and baby.
Conclusion
This study demonstrates the effectiveness of the discussion method in increasing knowledge and attitudes about macrosomia prevention among pregnant women. The findings of this study have significant implications for health education and counseling programs aimed at preventing macrosomia. By incorporating discussion methods into counseling programs, healthcare providers can improve the knowledge and attitudes of pregnant women, ultimately reducing the risk of macrosomia and improving the health outcomes of mothers and infants.
Limitations
This study has several limitations that should be considered when interpreting the results. The sample size was relatively small, and the study was conducted in a specific setting. Future studies should aim to replicate the findings of this study in larger and more diverse samples.
Future Directions
Future studies should investigate the effectiveness of discussion methods in other health education and counseling programs. Additionally, researchers should explore the role of technology in facilitating discussion methods and improving health education outcomes.
References
Q: What is macrosomia, and why is it a concern for pregnant women?
A: Macrosomia is a condition where a baby is born with a body weight of more than 4 kg. It is a serious health problem that can lead to various complications for both mothers and infants. Pregnant women who are at risk of macrosomia need to be educated on the risks and consequences of the condition to take preventive measures.
Q: What are the differences between lecture methods and discussion methods in health education?
A: Lecture methods involve a one-way communication where the speaker presents information to the audience, whereas discussion methods involve a two-way communication where participants engage in a dialogue with the speaker and each other. Discussion methods are more interactive and encourage active participation, which can lead to a deeper understanding of the material.
Q: Why is the discussion method more effective than the lecture method in increasing knowledge and attitudes about macrosomia prevention?
A: The discussion method is more effective because it encourages active interaction between participants and speakers, allowing participants to ask questions, argue, and share experiences. This helps in understanding the material better and easier to remember information. Additionally, discussion involves participants in the learning process, making them feel more involved and responsible for studying the material.
Q: What are the benefits of using discussion methods in health education?
A: Discussion methods have several benefits, including:
Increased knowledge and understanding of the material
Improved attitudes and behaviors towards health and wellness
Enhanced critical thinking and problem-solving skills
Increased motivation and engagement in the learning process
Better retention of information and skills
Q: How can healthcare providers incorporate discussion methods into their counseling programs?
A: Healthcare providers can incorporate discussion methods into their counseling programs by:
Encouraging active participation and engagement from participants
Using interactive and engaging materials, such as videos and group activities
Providing opportunities for participants to ask questions and share their experiences
Fostering a supportive and non-judgmental environment
Using technology, such as online forums and social media, to facilitate discussion and engagement
Q: What are the limitations of this study, and how can future studies build on the findings?
A: The limitations of this study include the small sample size and the specific setting in which the study was conducted. Future studies should aim to replicate the findings of this study in larger and more diverse samples. Additionally, researchers should explore the role of technology in facilitating discussion methods and improving health education outcomes.
Q: What are the implications of this study for health education and counseling programs?
A: The findings of this study have significant implications for health education and counseling programs aimed at preventing macrosomia. By incorporating discussion methods into counseling programs, healthcare providers can improve the knowledge and attitudes of pregnant women, ultimately reducing the risk of macrosomia and improving the health outcomes of mothers and infants.
Q: What are the next steps for researchers and healthcare providers in this area?
A: Researchers and healthcare providers should continue to explore the effectiveness of discussion methods in health education and counseling programs. They should also investigate the role of technology in facilitating discussion methods and improving health education outcomes. Additionally, they should develop and implement evidence-based interventions that incorporate discussion methods to improve health outcomes for pregnant women and their infants.