Analysis of the level of nutritional knowledge and its sources among physical education teachers in Al-Khums city in light of some professional variables

Abstract

    This study aimed to analyze the level of nutritional knowledge competencies and their sources among physical education teachers in Al-Khums city in light of professional variables, represented by years of teaching experience, educational stage, and participation in training courses. The study adopted the descriptive-analytical approach, using a questionnaire consisting of 30 items distributed across three main dimensions: nutritional knowledge competencies, sources of nutritional knowledge, and related professional variables. The initial sample consisted of 90 physical education teachers working in educational institutions in Al-Khums city. After excluding three incomplete questionnaires, the number of valid questionnaires for statistical analysis was 87. The data were statistically analyzed using the arithmetic mean, standard deviation, relative weight, independent samples t-test, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and Cronbach’s alpha coefficient. The results showed that the level of nutritional knowledge competencies was moderate, with a relative weight of 57.9%. The level of reliance on nutritional knowledge sources was also moderate, with a relative weight of 57.7%. The results also revealed statistically significant differences in nutritional knowledge competencies according to years of teaching experience, educational stage, and participation in training courses. However, the differences related to participation in training courses should be interpreted with caution due to the small number of participants in such courses. The study recommends developing nutrition content in physical education teacher preparation programs, organizing specialized training courses in nutrition and school health, and providing reliable scientific sources to help teachers update their nutritional knowledge.