Kd. Reynolds et al., Methods, results, and lessons learned from process evaluation of the high 5 school-based nutrition intervention, HEAL EDUC B, 27(2), 2000, pp. 177-186
This article describes the process evaluation of High 5, a school-based int
ervention targeting fruit and vegetable consumption among fourth graders an
d their families. The outcome evaluation involved 28 schools randomized to
intervention or control conditions. The intervention included classroom, fa
mily, and cafeteria components. Process evaluation was completed on each of
these components by using observations, self-report checklists, surveys, a
nd other measures. Results indicated high implementation rates on the class
room activities. Moderate family involvement was attained, perhaps diminish
ing intervention effects on parent consumption. Cafeterias provided environ
mental cues, and fruit and vegetable offerings as directed by the program.
A lower dose of the intervention was delivered to schools with larger Afric
an American enrollments and lower-income families. This article provides in
sights into the effective elements of a school-based dietary intervention a
nd provides suggestions for process evaluation in similar studies.