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Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition
Published in: Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition 1/2017

Open Access 01-12-2017 | Research article

The nutrition for sport knowledge questionnaire (NSKQ): development and validation using classical test theory and Rasch analysis

Authors: Gina Louise Trakman, Adrienne Forsyth, Russell Hoye, Regina Belski

Published in: Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition | Issue 1/2017

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Abstract

Background

Appropriate dietary intake can have a significant influence on athletic performance. There is a growing consensus on sports nutrition and professionals working with athletes often provide dietary education. However, due to the limitations of existing sports nutrition knowledge questionnaires, previous reports of athletes’ nutrition knowledge may be inaccurate.

Methods

An updated questionnaire has been developed based on a recent review of sports nutrition guidelines. The tool has been validated using a robust methodology that incorporates relevant techniques from classical test theory (CTT) and Item response theory (IRT), namely, Rasch analysis.

Results

The final questionnaire has 89 questions and six sub-sections (weight management, macronutrients, micronutrients, sports nutrition, supplements, and alcohol). The content and face validity of the tool have been confirmed based on feedback from expert sports dietitians and university sports students, respectively. The internal reliability of the questionnaire as a whole is high (KR = 0.88), and most sub-sections achieved an acceptable internal reliability. Construct validity has been confirmed, with an independent T-test revealing a significant (p < 0.001) difference in knowledge scores of nutrition (64 ± 16%) and non-nutrition students (51 ± 19%). Test-retest reliability has been assured, with a strong correlation (r = 0.92, p < 0.001) between individuals’ scores on two attempts of the test, 10 days to 2 weeks apart. Three of the sub-sections fit the Rasch Unidimensional Model.

Conclusions

The final version of the questionnaire represents a significant improvement over previous tools. Each nutrition sub-section is unidimensional, and therefore researchers and practitioners can use these individually, as required. Use of the questionnaire will allow researchers to draw conclusions about the effectiveness of nutrition education programs, and differences in knowledge across athletes of varying ages, genders, and athletic calibres.
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Metadata
Title
The nutrition for sport knowledge questionnaire (NSKQ): development and validation using classical test theory and Rasch analysis
Authors
Gina Louise Trakman
Adrienne Forsyth
Russell Hoye
Regina Belski
Publication date
01-12-2017
Publisher
BioMed Central
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12970-017-0182-y

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