ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: While the severe detrimental impact of COVID-19 on incarcerated people is well known, little is known about the experience of COVID-19 on those on community supervision. Our objective was to better understand the experience of the COVID-19 pandemic and its collateral consequences for those on community supervision (e.g., probation, parole). Beginning in December 2020, we conducted 185 phone surveys about COVID-19 with participants in The Southern Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) Study across its three sites - Florida, Kentucky, and North Carolina. We conducted rapid assessment interviews with both closed- and open-ended questions. We calculated descriptive statistics for close-ended questions and conducted a content analysis for open-ended questions. RESULTS: The COVID-19 pandemic affected those on community supervision through their experiences in the community and while incarcerated with over one-quarter of participants being reincarcerated during this time. In addition to many (128/185) experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, about half (85/185) of participants reported a diagnosis in their network with 16 of those participants losing loved ones to the pandemic. Participants experienced disruptions to their social network, healthcare, and livelihoods. Though many maintained their support systems, others felt isolated and depressed. Experiences during COVID-19 exacerbated difficulties already faced by those with criminal involvement. CONCLUSIONS: The public health community must recognize those experiencing probation and parole, not only those housed in carceral facilities, as disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. We must tailor programs and services to meet their needs.
ABSTRACT
The world has seen an explosion in mobile device technology over the past decade, in addition to the impact that COVID-19 has placed on nursing education programs. More specifically, mobile devices have afforded users with endless possibilities. This upsurge in mobile technology has altered the way people use and interact with their device. One such example is how these devices are being utilized for the purposes of learning due to social distancing guidelines. Thus, it becomes important to explore and understand those factors that will influence the use of mobile devices for learning. The purpose of this study was to explore variables that might influence the adoption of mobile devices among nursing faculty. The Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology served as the theoretical basis for this study and guiding framework. An exploratory quantitative survey research design was utilized to explore specific variables and their impact on mobile device adoption among participants. It was found that 85%, six of the seven research variables were statistically significant predictors of mobile device adoption. Mobile devices have the potential to leverage a wealth of resources for both users and faculty. Therefore, recommendations for developing increased use of mobile device technology for teaching and learning will be suggested.