Impact and Learner Experience of a Technology Ecosystem as an Approach to Healthy Lifestyles: Erasmus+ SUGAPAS Project

Abstract

The promotion of lifestyle habits in all ages is essential for the prevention of chronic non- communicable diseases. The aim of this study was to develop, validate, and disseminate an ecosystem that favors effective education on physical activity, a healthy lifestyle, and healthy nutritional habits. The sample consisted of 258 Spanish volunteer students. The evaluation of Ecosystem SUGAPAS was composed of two online surveys: MOOC and game surveys. The result of the MOOC survey reported a score above three points in all the sections (users’ opinion of the organization: 3.89 ± 0.71, 4.06 ± 0.64, and 4.01 ± 0.64; impact of the course on their day-to-day life: 3.62 ± 0.94; content present values: 3.96 ± 0.63, 3.69 ± 0.75, and 3.62 ± 0.94; usability of the platform: 3.75 ± 0.77, 3.96 ± 0.68, 4.06 ± 0.77, and 3.75 ± 0.84; relevance for professional development: 3.96 ± 0.63; overall opinion: 3.77 ± 0.57 points). The responses to all sections of the game evaluation reported a score between three and four points. A SUGAPAS ecosystem that includes new technologies for the promotion of a healthy lifestyle was developed, validated, and disseminated among the population. The users’ opinion, the impact of the ecosystem on their personal and professional development, and the usability of the platforms created make this ecosystem valid for its implementation for the proposed purposes.