Research Design:
The research aims to evaluate the impact and effectiveness of expanding school meal programs as a strategy to combat childhood hunger. A mixed-methods approach will be employed to gather both quantitative and qualitative data.
Research Objectives:
- Assess the nutritional impact of expanded school meal programs on participating children.
- Measure changes in attendance, academic performance, and overall well-being of students after the expansion of school meal programs.
- Understand the perceptions of students, parents, teachers, and school administrators regarding the effectiveness of the expanded meal programs.
- Analyze the cost-effectiveness and sustainability of the expanded programs.
Sampling:
- Quantitative: A stratified random sampling method will be used to select schools from different geographical regions. Participants will include students who are beneficiaries of the expanded meal program.
- Qualitative: Purposeful sampling will be employed to select students, parents, teachers, and school administrators for in-depth interviews and focus group discussions.
Data Collection:
- Quantitative: Pre- and post-program data will be collected on students’ attendance, academic performance (grades), and health indicators (e.g., BMI). Data will also be collected on the costs of implementing the program.
- Qualitative: Semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions will be conducted to gather insights into participants’ experiences, attitudes, and perceptions regarding the program.
Data Analysis:
- Quantitative: Descriptive statistics will be used to analyze changes in attendance, academic performance, and health indicators before and after the program expansion. Cost-effectiveness analysis will be conducted to assess the economic impact.
- Qualitative: Thematic analysis will be performed on the qualitative data to identify recurring themes related to the impact and effectiveness of the expanded meal programs.
