Publication

Abstract : Purpose : To assess the effectiveness of a structured teaching programme on knowledge regarding food and water borne diseases and its prevention among upper primary school childern in selected schools in Kochi. Method : The research design of the study was Quasi experimental, pre test post test control group design. The sampling technique was convenience sampling. There were 100 students selected from two schools in which 50 subjects each in experimental and control group. Data was collected with the help of a structured knowledge questionnaire to assess the level of knowledge and the demographic details. The analysis was done by using frequency, percentage, chi-square and paired t-test. Results : The findings showed that the mean post test knowledge score 23.96 of children in the experimental group was significantly higher(p<0.05) than the pre test knowledge score of 13.96. Similarly the mean post test 23.90 knowledge score of upper primary school children in the experimental group was significantly higher (p<0.05) than the mean post test knowledge score of 11.66 of control group. There is significant association (p>0.05) between knowledge score and sex of the children. The structured teaching programme regarding food and water borne diseases and its prevention was found to be effective in improving the level of knowledge of school children. Conclusion : The study depicts the importance of implementing structured teaching programmes for upper primary school children on various topics as it would help to improve knowledge and follow healthy practices, through which the children can build up a healthy generation.