ARS | Publication request: Formative assessment in the development of an obesity prevention component for the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program in Texas

Submitted to: Family and Community Health
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: July 1, 2010
Publication Date: January 1, 2011
Citation: Thompson, D.J., Cullen, K.W., Reed, D.B., Konzelmann, K., Lara-Smalling, A. 2011. Formative assessment in the development of an obesity prevention component for the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program in Texas. Family and Community Health. 34(1):61-71.

Interpretive Summary: The Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) in Texas serve low income participants; however, the program did not have a focus on obesity prevention. Low income individuals are at risk of obesity. Because programs tailored to individual needs are more likely to be effective, quantitative and qualitative, research was conducted to find out what information participants want and how they want it presented. This paper presents what was learned and how the information was used to design the intervention. The impact of this research is that it has the potential to result in a more effective program that is focused on the specific needs of the population of interest.

Technical Abstract: This study conducted formative research (surveys, focus groups); to assess the nutrition education needs of clients in the Texas Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program prior to curriculum revision. Current participants in the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program from 3 Texas cities (Austin, Houston, and San Antonio) participated. Data were used to tailor the curriculum to the target population. This research provides evidence that members of the target audience can provide valuable insights into a particular topic. Formative work prior to intervention development should be conducted to identify key issues regarding a particular topic and to evaluate potential educational approaches.