2023 journal article
Integration of Food-based Learning With Science in the Preschool Classroom: Implementation Gaps and Opportunities
JOURNAL OF NUTRITION EDUCATION AND BEHAVIOR, 55(4), 266–284.
author keywords: food-based learning; preschool; kindergarten readiness; STEAM; integration (J Nutr Educ Be-hav
MeSH headings : Child; Child, Preschool; Humans; Food; Refuse Disposal; Schools; North Carolina; Motivation; School Teachers
UN Sustainable Development Goal Categories
3. Good Health and Well-being
(Web of Science)
Source: Web Of Science
Added: May 30, 2023
Objective To explore Head Start teachers’ use and integration of food-based learning (FBL) with science learning in the Head Start classroom. Design Phenomenological approach using in-depth semistructured telephone interviews. Setting North Carolina Head Start preschools. Participants Thirty-five Head Start lead and assistant teachers. Phenomenon of Interest All interviews were transcribed verbatim. Authors coded interview data for emergent themes. Analysis Eleven primary themes were identified during analysis and inductively organized using the Systems Thinking Iceberg Model. Results Teachers described most frequently using FBL during mealtimes. Teachers stated they felt successful when children were engaged and willing to try a new food. However, they struggled to connect food to science concepts. Teachers reported several motivators (eg, improving health) and barriers (eg, food waste) to integrating FBL. Teachers prioritized preparing children for kindergarten, but most teachers did not see how FBL could help them achieve this goal. Conclusions and Implications Head Start teacher professional development programs could impact all 4 levels of the Systems Thinking Model to improve teachers’ perceptions, underlying structures, and mental models regarding integrative FBL. Additional research is warranted to investigate the adoption, implementation, and potential impact of FBL on academic outcomes.