Summative evaluation of the Indiana Family Nutrition Program
Abstract
A combined qualitative and quantitative study was used with a phenomenological perspective to measure and to identify knowledge, behavior, and attitude change among Family Nutrition Program participants for a summative evaluation of the Indiana Family Nutrition Program. The theoretical framework of phenomenology, self-efficacy, adult education principles and the use of “The Program Planning Model” (Blank & Russell, 2000) were all incorporated into this study. Data consisted of pre-post-test surveys (n = 367) and seven focus groups and six one-on-one interviews (n = 91) with program participants who completed five or more lessons. The guiding research questions for the qualitative component were: (a) In what ways does the Family Nutrition Program impact our clients' lives? (b) How do the clients describe their experiences with this program? (c) How can this program be changed to better meet the needs of the clients effectively? The guiding research questions for the quantitative component were: (a) Do program participants experience a change in their behavior because they participate in the program? (b) Do participants learn to prepare more nutritious foods (evidenced through food selection) and preparation and have the confidence (self-efficacy) that they can select, purchase, and prepare these foods for their families? (c) Do participants become more confident they can perform the behaviors following completion of the program lessons? (d) How do clients' attitudes change regarding their perspectives in stretching their food dollars and food stamps, and their perspectives in determining the nutritional needs of their family? Focus groups and interviews provided evidence that when the Family Nutrition Program helps meet the clients' needs and they have positive program experiences, the program helps facilitate behavior, attitude, and nutrition changes. The program can also increase the clients' confidence in their ability to make these changes. Participants also found the program can have a positive influence or meaningful impact on their lives and/or family members' lives. Paired-difference t-tests were used to determine whether or not there was a statistically significant change for each survey question, from the clients' pre-test responses to their post-test responses. As a result of participating in the program, participants experienced a significant change in their behaviors and attitudes and in fact, improved their food shopping, food selection, food safety, nutrition, and money management practices. In conclusion, the Indiana Family Nutrition Program has a positive effect on program participants' lives and helps facilitate the voluntary adoption of positive and attitudes related to the areas of nutrition, food safety, and money management.
Degree
Ph.D.
Advisors
Talbert, Purdue University.
Subject Area
Adult education|Continuing education|Nutrition|Health education
Off-Campus Purdue Users:
To access this dissertation, please log in to our
proxy server.