Nudging Handwashing: a Cluster-randomized Trial in Bangladesh

Nudging Handwashing: a Cluster-randomized Trial in Bangladesh

The study will collect and analyze quantitative data regarding handwashing behaviors among school-aged children to determine the impact of nudges compared to handwashing and hygiene education programs.

Based on the success of the preliminary pilot, we hypothesize nudges leading to higher rates of handwashing than traditional handwashing and hygiene education programs.

This study will utilize a cluster-randomized trial design to collect quantitative data and analyze the handwashing behaviors of school-aged children.

The primary purpose of this protocol is to assess nudges as a viable method of promoting handwashing among school-aged children.

The specific objectives of this quantitative exploration are to:

1. Determine if nudges can prompt significant behavior change and result in higher rates of handwashing among school-aged children in Bangladesh
2. Determine if behavior change resulting from nudging is sustainable over time

Inclusion Criteria:

• schools in Dhunat, Gurudaspur and Boraigram Upazilla (sub districts) of Bogra and Natore districts of Rajshahi Division that that meet the following inclusion criteria:

  1. No hygiene education programs in the last two years
  2. No handwashing stations or facilities on school grounds
  3. Improved sanitation/toilets facilities (latrines)
  4. Water supply on site or within 3-6 meters of the school
  5. A school population between 125-450 students, and
  6. A government primary school (all co-ed)
  7. Willingness of the school principle / head teacher and a representative of the School Management Committee (SMC) to participate in the proposed research

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Located outside of Dhunat, Gurudaspur and Boraigram Upazilla (sub districts) of Bogra and Natore districts of Rajshahi Division
2. Have had a hygiene education program in the last two years
3. Already has handwashing stations or facilities on school grounds
4. Does not have improved sanitation/toilets facilities (latrines)
5. Does not have water supply on site or within 3-6 meters of the school
6. Has a school population under 125 or over 450 students
7. Is not a government primary school or is not co-ed
8. School principle / head teacher or representative of the School Management Committee (SMC) is not willing to participate in the proposed research