Development of an Educational Game Based on the Conceptual Change Model to Improve Food Safety Knowledge and Attitudes

Foodborne diseases are a global public health issue that affects millions of people annually. Children and teenagers are vulnerable populations who are at risk of contracting these diseases due to their limited knowledge of food safety practices. Educational games have been shown to be effective in improving learning outcomes and promoting positive attitudes towards health topics. However, there is limited research on the use of the Conceptual Change Model (CCM) in developing educational games about food safety. The objective of this study is to develop an educational game about food safety using the CCM to improve the attitude and knowledge of children and teenagers towards food safety. The study surveyed 72 students from both primary and secondary schools on their understanding and attitudes towards food safety. There was a noticeable lack of understanding and undesirable attitudes about the appropriate cooking temperatures among the students. Upon the implementation of a food safety game intervention, a significant improvement (p < .001) was observed in the post-test scores, reflecting a notable enhancement in food safety knowledge and attitudes. This research substantiates the efficacy of an educational game in enhancing comprehension and attitudes towards food safety. Employing the CCM to create a food safety educational game represents an innovative strategy that could enhance learning results and foster positive food safety attitudes among young people. The findings of this study will contribute to the development of effective educational interventions to prevent and control foodborne diseases.
Keywords: Conceptual Change Model, Educational Game, Food safety