The Study on Nutritional Knowledge and Eating Behavior of Elementary School Senior Students in Incheon Area

Kim, Gyoung Mi; Lee, Sim Yeol

Abstract

This study was conducted to investigate the nutritional knowledge and eating behavior of elementary school senior students in Incheon area and to develope education program appropriate for them. Questionnaire was developed and distributed to 551 fifth and sixth grade students of fourteen elementary schools in Incheon area. The data was analyzed using ANOVA. According to the results on nutritional knowledge and attitude, senior students were aware of major sources of some nutrients, but didn't seemed to know about the role of some nutrients. Nevertheless, it was favorable that they took various food from major food groups. But the proportion of students skipping breakfast and taking instant food was high. Their table etiquette was not good at home, but attitude for food hygiene was comparatively good. They recognized Korean traditional food more nutritious than fast food. Even though they understood what was right for eating behavior, they didn't practice it correctly. From these results, it seemed that follow-up study or intervention is necessary to improve nutritional knowledge and eating behavior of the students. Qualified teachers, nutrition specialists, are required in order to develop and apply systematic nutrition education program for correcting inappropriate eating behavior of the students. Furthermore, nutrition education for their parents will be more effective.