Objective
Data collection from low-income nutrition education programs is usually limited to short-term quantitative outcomes. The reunion class goals are to gather participants’ qualitative success stories 3 to 12 months after participation through an open dialogue approach and reconnect them with past learning and lifestyle changes.
Target audience
Participants of the reunion class are adult graduates of Wyoming’s low-income nutrition education program who have completed the series 3 to 12 months before the class.
Theory, Prior Research, Rationale
Participatory Action Research was used to create the program. This allowed for a self-representation of the experience of the participant to be seen, which is not possible from an outside observation. Action planning used during the reunion class emphasized prior knowledge which allowed for problem solving, reflection, and goal setting.
Description
Data was collected through educator focus groups, graduate focus groups, and individual interviews. Using Healthy Interactions® Healthy Eating in the Real World Conversation Map’sR methodology, participants shared personal successes and struggles with applying what they learned into their daily lives since graduating from the program. Groups of 5 to 10 individuals from different class series throughout the state were reunited to allow for varying perspectives.
Evaluation
The triangulation of data allowed for a through look at the program’s development. After each stage, the program was revised and re-tested. Pilot programs were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed for reoccurring themes.
Conclusions and Implications
The reunion lesson was taught to program educators at an in-service training for implementation across Wyoming. Educators can gather long-term success stories and further the transfer of learning for past participants through the reunion class.
Funding
Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program - Education.
Article info
Publication history
P48
Identification
Copyright
© 2013 Published by Elsevier Inc.
