A comparative study of three model comprehensive elementary school health education programs

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of the three most popular comprehensive health education programs in Michigan including each program's curricular content, student outcomes, and cost effectiveness. The three programs were cross-referenced with the Michigan Essential Performance Objectives for Health (MEPO). Student outcome data were gathered and analyzed utilizing a health education instrument derived from the Michigan Educational Assessment Program. Instruments were administered to 377 third-graders and 595 sixth-graders participating in the three health programs. While each of the three programs met the Michigan Essential Performance Objectives for Health, the programs differed in areas of teacher training time, materials cost, and length of time for implementation. Third graders showed some very positive effects from health instruction based upon a comparison of their composite scores and scores for 10 health topic areas. Sixth graders showed some gains in several health topic areas, but few significant gains in composite scores.