ERIC Number: EJ1018737
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2013
Pages: 11
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1559-5676
EISSN: N/A
Training Needs of Personnel Employed in Programs Participating in the National School Lunch Program in California
Jones, Anna Marie; Punia, Mandeep; Young, Shannan; Huegli, Carol Chase; Zidenberg-Cherr, Sheri
Journal of Child Nutrition & Management, v37 n1 Spr 2013
Purpose/Objectives: The objective of this study was to determine the perceived training needs of California school nutrition personnel. Methods: A questionnaire was developed using items from previous questionnaires administered to similar populations. New items were written based on feedback from stakeholders. Respondents were asked to rate their perceived need for each training topic, using a Likert scale ranging from "not part of my job" to "really needed." Survey dissemination followed Dillman's tailored design method. A series of emails, which included a link to a web-based questionnaire, were sent to programs participating in the NSLP ("n" = 1490) over the course of several weeks. An option to complete a paper copy of the questionnaire was available. Results: A total of 994 respondents initiated the web-based survey. Of these, 739 (74.3%) completed the survey. An additional 34 respondents completed paper questionnaires. Respondents indicated a need for training in topics related to: program management; the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010; nutrition, health and wellness; planning, preparing, and serving meals; and communication and marketing. Those employed in residential child care institutions expressed a strong need for training specific to this type of program. Applications to Child Nutrition Professionals: The survey used in this study illuminates the perceived training needs of school nutrition program directors, managers, and staff in California. The results of this research will be useful in guiding the development of training courses and strategic plans for providing trainings and resources in California. The results may also assist other states in developing training plans and resources.
Descriptors: Training, School Personnel, Nutrition, Questionnaires, Likert Scales, Responsibility, Child Health, Wellness, Hunger, Marketing, Communication Strategies, Food, Residential Programs, Child Care, Professional Development, Lunch Programs, Online Surveys, Planning, Needs Assessment
School Nutrition Association. 120 Waterfront Street Suite 300, National Harbor, MD 20745. Tel: 301-686-3100; Fax: 301-686-3115; e-mail: servicecenter@schoolnutrition.org; Web site: http://schoolnutrition.org
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Elementary Secondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: California
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A