Use of Information, Education and Communication (IEC)-Based Materials: An Effective Teaching-Learning Strategy in Nutrition Education
- October 22, 2020
- Posted by: RSIS Team
- Categories: Education, IJRSI
International Journal of Research and Scientific Innovation (IJRSI) | Volume VII, Issue IX, November 2020 | ISSN 2321–2705
Halliday, Tochukwu Agnes
Department of Human Kinetics and Health Education
University of Port Harcourt
Abstract: Human health depends on what is eaten or not eaten, Nutrition is key in developing and maintaining optimal health, hence the necessity for nutrition education. This is because a nutritionally educated person is an asset to himself and to others around. To achieve the aim and objectives of nutrition education, appropriate materials and approaches should be employed for a successful teaching-learning process. Studies have recognized information, education and communication (IEC) as one of the practicable and effective approaches that can be used in addressing a wide range of health-related issues. This paper, therefore, discusses use of IEC-based material as an effective-learning strategy in nutrition education in a community setting.
Key words: IEC, IEC-based materials, nutrition, communication, teaching-learning.
I. INTRODUCTION
Information, education and communication (IEC) has been considered a very important means of imparting knowledge, disseminating health information and positively modifying health attitude and behaviours. According to Osumanu, (2008) IEC has recognized as one of the practicable and cost-effective approach that can be used in addressing wide range of determinants of health, risk factors, building trust and commitment, nurturing community participation and empowerment in the development and implementation of health initiatives (such as nutrition education).
According to Zaman, (2013) IEC has been described as a public health approach aimed at changing or reinforcing health-related behaviours in a target audience concerning a specific problem and within a predefined period of time through communication. It is broader than developing health education material because it includes the process of communication and building networks for communicating information. It means sharing information and ideas in a way that is culturally sensitive and accepted to the community, using appropriate channels, messages and methods.
II. CONCEPT OF INFORMATION EDUCATION COMMUNICATION (IEC)
IEC is a broad term made up of a series of approaches, activities and output. This approach includes the use of posters, mass media to inform and create positive norms amongst the general population, including the use of target interpersonal communication aimed at helping those at
