We set up our data collection point in school just before lunch time using instruments like measuring tapes and electronic weighing machines which we brought from home. Being in a strategic location, we were able to find large number of participants for our data collection. Choosing the period prior to lunch helps us to get more participants who have yet to consume their lunch as it is one of our exclusion criteria.
How did we gather the samples?
It is a random sampling method which we adopted, as we chose to approach any students that might have past our booth. Firstly we introduced ourselves and our purpose, followed by gaining informed consent from our participants. Our members then verified their credentials to see if they meet our age requirement. Subsequently, our group members will proceed on to take the required measurements with those participants whom met our requirements. Thereafter, our subjects have to fill in a short questionaire which we collected.
What are the tools we used?
A measuring tape was used to record the height of our subjects. Subjects were told to remove their shoes and to stand with both heels against the wall, facing front. A book was also used to ensure accurate readings by pressing it against the highest point of the subject's head and against the wall. The subject is then asked to step aside while our members record the readings.
Electronic weighing scale was used to measure the weight of our subjects. Subjects were asked to empty their pockets and also remove their shoes so that there will not be any additional weight imposed. Subjects were also reminded to look forward while our members record the readings as this will ensure that they are still and the reading will not fluctuate.
The measuring tape allows us to measure up to the closest centimetre while the electronic weighing machine is accurate to one decimal place measurements.
How often are the measurements taken?
Each subject have to have their height and weight recorded at two stations manned by two different group members. The readings are then averaged out to minimize human errors.
Any rejection criteria?
Subjects will not be asked to participate in this data collection if they meet any of the following criteria which we deem to have an effect on the data collected. Rejection criteria are as follow:
• Age
• Scoliotic, Kyphotic, Lordotic or any apparent spinal malalignment
• Have consumed a meal within 2 hours
As we are targeting the 20 - 22 year old age group, those who did not fall under this range will be excluded from our study.
Spinal malalignment will cause a significant change to one's apparent height and it will not be a true reflection of one's true height. Since height is an important variable in the calculation of BMI, this group of students are also excluded from our study.
To minimize the chances of a heavy meal's effect on someone's weight, we decided to not include students whom had just consumed their meal within 2 hours. Weight is an important variable in the calculation of BMI, thus this group of students are also not asked to participate in our data collection.
