Color-encoding visualizations as a tool to assist a nonliterate population in completing health survey responses

Abstract

Visual representations of data have increasingly included color-encodings to help engage participants in health research. However, there is limited information on the way in which participants interpret color or on the influence of embedded cultural interpretations of color on survey responses. This study examines the interpretation of color-encodings used to indicate survey response options and their impact on participants' responses. Using a descriptive, crosssectional design, interviews were conducted with 30 older Hmong adults from one Midwestern city in the United States. A survey data collection method was developed using: (a) an Audio-Computer-Assisted Self-Interviewing tool with (b) text-based and color-encoded response options and (c) assistance from a familiar helper. We analyzed the responses using directed content analysis. Findings reveal that some colors (red, black, and white) have strong cultural connotations; such colors were strongly correlated with specific emotions, while others (green, blue, purple, and pink) had no cultural meaning. Early in the survey, some older Hmong were distracted by response options indicated in red and black, influencing their response choices. However, with repeated instructions from the helpers, all participants overcame the color-related distractions and completed the survey. The findings highlight the importance of using colors cautiously and purposively in visualization development.

A Systematic Review of Patient-Facing Visualizations of Personal Health Data

“…Given that this condition affects an estimated 8% of the male population, 66 colorblindness screening should also be included in future research. In addition, colors and symbols take on different meanings depending on the patient's cultural background 19,67 which highlights the importance of investigating how the target patient population interprets color when evaluating visualizations which use color encodings. In sum, efforts to collect and report more detailed sample data will facilitate identification of optimal visualizations for specific patient populations.…”

The Role Of Data Visualization Tools In Presenting Medicaوl Record Information Effectively

“…Considering the prevalence of this issue among around 8% of males, it is advisable to include color-blindness screening in future study endeavors. Furthermore, it is crucial to examine how the intended patient group perceives color when assessing visualizations that use color encodings, since colors and symbols might have varying significance based on the patient's cultural heritage [19] [29]. Overall, the use of strategies to gather and present more comprehensive sample data will enhance the ability to identify the most effective visual representations for certain groups of patients.…”

Afterword: Future Directions in Multinational, Multiregional, and Multicultural (3MC) Survey Research

“…The Hmong believe that their health can be altered by spiritual causes, including the loss of a soul or a frightened soul (Culhane-Pera et al, 2003;. It is well documented that the Hmong have a limited understanding of Western medical terminology (Lee & Vang, 2010;Lor, 2018b). Historical knowledge, traditions, and skills are passed orally from generation to generation (Duffy, 2007;Duffy, Harmon, Thao, & Yang, 2004;Lor & Bowers, 2014;Park, 2002).…”