Evaluating Indigenous post-secondary student acceptance of The Aaniish Naa Gegii: The Children’s Health and Well-being Measure

Abstract

Indigenous post-secondary students require access to culturally relevant tools to support their health and well-being. The Aaniish Naa Gegii: The Children's Health and Well-being Measure (ACHWM) is a culturally relevant tool developed and validated to measure the health and well-being of Indigenous children and youth aged 8-18. However, such a measure for Indigenous post-secondary students has yet to be created. The ACHWM may be a relevant tool to explore for Indigenous post-secondary students. This study assessed whether Indigenous post-secondary students accept the ACHWM and determined whether revision or adaptation is needed for this population. Overall, it was hypothesized that the ACHWM would be psychometrically reliable and valid, and that the Indigenous student population would accept the ACHWM, finding the measure relevant with minimal revision and no additional questions needed. Indigenous students (N = 91) were recruited using non-purposive sampling methods to complete an online questionnaire and an optional follow-up one-on-one cognitive interview to review the ACHWM items. The online questionnaire included the ACHWM, the WHOQOL-BREF, the WHO-5, an adapted UTAUT measure and individual item assessment of the ACHWM. The cognitive interviews included reviewing the ACHWM items to better understand Indigenous post-secondary students' acceptance. Results were consistent with most hypotheses such that the ACHWM is psychometrically reliable and valid amongst Indigenous post-secondary students, participants found items of the ACHWM relevant and needing minor revisions. However, unexpectedly, students suggested additional questions were needed to reflect their health and well-being better. Findings will inform future adaptation of the ACHWM to better support Indigenous students, with the goal of addressing the need for greater access to culturally relevant support.