Date of Award

Summer 8-2007

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Nutrition and Food Systems

Committee Chair

Dr. M. Kathleen Yadrick

Committee Chair Department

Nutrition and Food Systems

Committee Member 2

Dr. Carol Connell

Committee Member 2 Department

Nutrition and Food Systems

Committee Member 3

Dr. Jamie Zoellner

Committee Member 4

Dr. Elaine Molaison

Abstract

This study describes the process evaluation of Fit for Life Steps, a community-based participatory research-influenced intervention focused on improving physical activity and health. Process evaluation data were collected from participants, including volunteer coaches who led walking group members, and implementers involved in Fit for Life Steps, which utilized a convenience sample to identify participants and implementers. Commitment to serve forms, walking group member recruitment lists, demographic questionnaires, contact forms, intervention activity tracking forms, attendance sheets, contact logs, walking logs, records of walking logs being turned into coach, coach training satisfaction questionnaires, walking group member evaluations of coaches, checklists for coaches who received monthly incentive and impact/outcome data collection checklists were completed by various participants and implementers. Also, focus groups and structured interviews were conducted with participants and implementers. Multiple data analysis techniques were utilized: content analysis, descriptive statistical analysis, focus group and structured interview theme identification methods and triangulation. There was a moderate level of fidelity, reach, implementation and exposure for the intervention as a whole and for a majority of intervention components. In addition, there was an overwhelmingly positive reaction to the intervention as a whole and to most intervention components. Recruitment in Fit for Life Steps limited diversity of individuals involved in Fit for Life Steps. However, those recruited for the intervention maintained participation in the intervention to a high degree. There were some barriers and contextual issues present during Fit for Life Steps that may have negatively influenced the implementation and results of Fit for Life Steps. However, contamination issues prevalent in Fit for Life Steps positively influenced participation and maintenance of participation in Fit for Life Steps.

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