Difficulties of Field Methodology Associated with an Experiential Learning Project

Abstract

An experiential learning project through the USDA Food and Nutrition Summer Institute focuses on diabetes and obesity in the African American community by addressing nutrition and physical activity among children. In this phase of the project, students from five historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) identified community partners and tested the feasibility of using several instruments for a future intervention. Seventy-four children and 31 parents completed a modified USDA Diet and Health Knowledge Survey questionnaire; socio-demographic, physical activity, and anthropometric datasheets; and Block Food Frequency Questionnaires. Students faced several challenges in collecting food and behavior information, including respondent burden, appropriateness of questionnaires, and technology difficulties.

Keywords:

• nutrition
• physical activity
• children
• parents
• African American
• experiential learning

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

This project was funded by the Community Nutrition Research Group, Beltsville Human Nutrition Research Center, USDA. Appreciation is extended to the students and faculty advisors at each university site; Kristen Campbell and Mrs. Ann Warren (Alabama A&M University), Cecillia Patterson and Dr. Esther Okeiyi (North Carolina Central University), Tiffanie Yates and Dr. Eleanora Isles (Howard University), Tiffany Williams and Dr. Glenda Johnson (Southern University), and Chellani Hathorn and Dr. Adelia Bovell-Benjamin (Tuskegee University).