School Based Technology Interventions and the Impact on Dietary Behaviors Among Elementary-Aged Children: A Systematic Review

Childhood obesity has been on the rise since the 1980s, the same year the personal computer (PC) was introduced into society. During this time, children's dietary habits changed to consuming more high fat, high sodium foods and less nutritious (fruits, vegetables) foods. Additionally, children began using more technological devices to play games and watch videos.Technology, though, will not disappear anytime soon. Therefore, instead of restricting technology, researchers turn to technology to educate children about consuming more nutritious (fruits, vegetables) foods and less high fat, high sodium foods. This systematic review sought to identify and evaluate the effectiveness of school based technology interventions and the impact on improving dietary behaviors among children aged 6-12 years old. The findings revealed seven articles that increased fruit and vegetable consumption and decreased consumption of excess sugar among children. These particular studies included nutrition education, learning theories, and video games, text messaging or an app to engage children. Results showed regardless of the technology to educate children, these school-based technology interventions improved dietary behaviors among children. Therefore, incorporation of nutrition education and learning theories when designing these technological tools will engage and motivate a child to consume more nutritious foods.