Two Blind Individuals in a Forest: Implementing Project-Based Learning in Nutrition and Food Technology in Secondary Schools in Kampala, Uganda

Abstract

Purpose: In this study, we explored how project-based learning is used in Nutrition and Food Technology in Uganda. Methodology: Using a mixed methods research approach, 12 focus group discussions were conducted with student project group leaders and considered nine for analysis (n = 50) 12 key informant interviews were done with NFT teachers and considered six for analysis because saturation point was reached. Also, quantitative data was collected from 197 learners who were not group leaders using questionnaires. Findings: The study revealed that the majority of projects in the NFT syllabus were only on food processing with none on topics that link nutrition to health. It further revealed that PBL was used as an additional practice for material taught initially by other means (Mean = 2.72; SD = 0.58), with limited writing of proposals (Mean = 1.47; SD = 0.85) with a narrow focus on 21st-century skills. Also, PBL strongly focused on the originality of the products (Mean = 2.53; SD = 0.82) with overall, an overemphasis on projects for assessment instead of learning. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study was limited to Kampala, so further research across the country is recommended. In addition, further studies on assessment of projects for learning are recommended.