22nd Annual Student Research Conference
Analyzing Change in the Knowledge and Choices of Elementary School Students Concerning Nutrition and Exercise
Jamie K. Menown* and Christina R. Rhoades
Prof. Pamela Gardner, Faculty Mentor
Nutrition and physical fitness of children is an increasing area of concern as incidence of childhood obesity increases. If children can acquire good habits, a healthier adult population is possible someday. To help students develop these habits, a rural school district implemented a comprehensive health program to improve nutrition and increase physical activity. Before this intervention began, second- through fourth-grade students were surveyed on knowledge of nutrition and physical activity and their choices based on that knowledge. In pre-test data, it was found that the students' knowledge was adequate. Second graders answered 88% of knowledge questions correctly, third graders 91%, and fourth graders 89%. However, their knowledge was not reflected in their choices. Second graders answered only 62% of choice questions correctly, third graders 67%, and fourth graders 65%. Following the intervention, third- through fifth-grade students were administered the same survey. Our presentation will recount the results of this pre and post survey.
Keywords: Children, Nutrition, Exercise, Education, Knowledge
Topic(s):Nursing
Education
Health Science
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 27-2
Location: VH 1236
Time: 10:00