Validating Smartphone Applications
Department
Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering
Major
Civil Engineering
Research Advisor
Oerther, Daniel B.
Advisor's Department
Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering
Funding Source
John and Susan Mathes Endowed Chair of Environmental Engineering
Abstract
Nearly sixty percent of Americans are fat. This is partially due to overeating, partially due to lack of exercise, and partially due to environmental determinants. Being informed and sharing accountability appear to be sufficient to improve wellness. Smart phone apps such as 'MyFitnessPal' provide a way to share accountability in a social network as well as to track exercise and food. Our study is testing the benefits of smart phone apps to improve wellness in school age children as well as the elderly in Missouri. We are comparing our results in Missouri with results we are observing in rural and urban India to better understand the role of geography and culture to combat overweight and under-exercise. As part of this study, we visit local schools and nursing homes in Rolla and have also visited schools and homes in Gujarat, India. We expect that our approach will confirm our hypothesis that smart phone apps provide a robust means to improve knowledge of wellness ultimately improving health.
Biography
Darrell is a junior at Missouri University of Science and Technology studying Civil Engineering. While on campus Darrell is involved with Delta Sigma Phi Fraternity, Student Activity Finance Board, Steel Bridge Design Team, Campus Christian Fellowship, and Blue Key Honor Society. In Darrell's spare time he enjoys rock climbing, playing golf, and spending time with his family.
Research Category
Social Sciences
Presentation Type
Poster Presentation
Document Type
Poster
Location
Upper Atrium/Hallway
Presentation Date
03 Apr 2013, 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Validating Smartphone Applications
Upper Atrium/Hallway
Nearly sixty percent of Americans are fat. This is partially due to overeating, partially due to lack of exercise, and partially due to environmental determinants. Being informed and sharing accountability appear to be sufficient to improve wellness. Smart phone apps such as 'MyFitnessPal' provide a way to share accountability in a social network as well as to track exercise and food. Our study is testing the benefits of smart phone apps to improve wellness in school age children as well as the elderly in Missouri. We are comparing our results in Missouri with results we are observing in rural and urban India to better understand the role of geography and culture to combat overweight and under-exercise. As part of this study, we visit local schools and nursing homes in Rolla and have also visited schools and homes in Gujarat, India. We expect that our approach will confirm our hypothesis that smart phone apps provide a robust means to improve knowledge of wellness ultimately improving health.
