Development of Monitoring Sheet in Minimizing the Number of Learners Who Are Inclined in Eating Unhealthy Foods

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

This study was developed in response to the school's long-time problem regarding the prevalence of learners eating unhealthy food outside the school premise. Because of this matter, the researchers developed various interventions and approaches to help sustain the learners' healthy eating initiatives. These were not realized at once due to the growing number of factors that contributed to the failure of attempts done in the past. In this study, we developed better practices supported by a consistent and more effective tool like the use of monitoring sheets to minimize the number of learners who are fond of eating unhealthy foods.

METHODS

Various approaches were used to minimize the number of learners who were inclined in eating unhealthy food during recess time. Through the collaboration and efforts of the researchers, they created a data collection plan, with operational procedures and a well-developed monitoring sheet to indicate and analyze the root cause of the said issues. Through this method, they positively got a reliable, attainable, measurable, and consistent result to achieve a successful outcome that will be applied in the near future for holistic 21st Century learners.

RESULTS

The number of learners eating unhealthy foods decreased from 65% (190 out of 292) to 30% in Cepriana Ascue Memorial Elementary School for the school year 2018-2019. The researchers met the target and improved it from 65% to at least 30 % of the learners who patronized the school canteen. If 100 % of learners incorporate lifelong healthy habits like eating nutritious food from Kinder to Grade VI, they may be able to reduce and prevent cases of malnutrition.

DISCUSSIONS

The use of monitoring sheet is found to be an effective tool; therefore, it is recommended to be used for remaining learners who are not yet inclined in eating healthy food. Teamwork and cooperation of the school and stakeholders should be emphasized to ensure maximum participation for the continuous improvement of the learners' health condition. Health awareness of the parents will be a great help to make them responsible for their children's health. Monitoring and positive peer testing should be done through the influence of the learners who are eating healthy foods.