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Development and validation of a nutrition knowledge test for elementary school students

nutrition
public-health
science-and-medical-education

Abstract

Nutrition in childhood plays a crucial role in promoting lifelong health and preventing nutrition-related diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular conditions. Despite its importance, global reports indicate a rising trend in childhood obesity and overweight prevalence, including in Türkiye. Given that schools are a key environment for shaping children’s eating habits, assessing their nutrition knowledge becomes essential. This study aimed to develop and validate a nutrition knowledge test specifically for 4th-grade elementary school students in Türkiye. A total of 221 students (ages ranged from 9 to 11) participated in the study after completing all nutrition-related courses outlined in the Turkish national curriculum. The 21-item test was developed through an expert panel and curriculum alignment, followed by face and content validity assessments. Rasch modelling was utilized to analyze item reliability, person reliability, and fit statistics. Results indicated that all items except one (item 13) met acceptable infit and outfit criteria. The test demonstrated high item reliability (.97), good person reliability (.80), and strong unidimensionality, indicating that the test measures a single construct: nutrition knowledge. Wright maps confirmed appropriate item-person distribution, and both person and item separation indexes were at acceptable levels. This study fills a significant gap by providing a valid and reliable tool to assess nutrition knowledge in Turkish elementary school students. The findings suggest the test can be used to inform educational interventions and public health strategies.
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