Online Resources for Robin Sequence; an Analysis of Readability

Abstract

The objective was to evaluate the readability of easily accessible parent-directed information concerning Robin Sequence (RS) online, compared to the American Medical Association (AMA)-recommended sixth grade (age 11-12) readability level. A Google search of the term “Pierre Robin Sequence information” was performed. The first ten websites were evaluated using six commonly used readability formulas. Sample texts from three websites were ‘translated’ by the authors, with the aim of achieving a sixth grade readability level. The following outcomes were used: Automated Readability Index (ARI), Coleman Liau Index (CLI), Gunning Fog Score, Simple Measure of Gobbledygook (SMOG), Flesch Kincaid Grade Level (FKGL), and Flesch Reading Ease (FRE) score. The mean pooled grade level of the top 10 included websites was 12.1 (age 17-18). The overall FRE Index was 45.8, which is equivalent to a College-grade reading level. The mean grade level by each test used was: Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level 11.6 (age 16-17), Gunning Fog Score 13.3 (age 18+), SMOG 10.0 (age 14-15), Coleman-Liau Index 13.8 (age 18+), and ARI 12.0 (age 17-18). The author-translated resources achieved pooled mean grade levels of 6.3-6.5. Parent-directed online materials concerning RS have a readability in excess of the AMA-recommended sixth grade reading level. Even though the condition is complex, more readable resources are achievable. Coproduction of parent-directed resources in association with public an patient involvement (PPI) contributors is encouraged.