Abstract

This study examined the effectiveness of Project HIP (Health Improvement Project) in enhancing the nutritional knowledge and health awareness of Grade 12 STEM students at Bestlink College of the Philippines. Recognizing the growing influence of technology in education and lifestyle management, the research explored how a QR-code-based instructional material could promote better understanding of nutrition, Body Mass Index (BMI) awareness, and healthy behavior among adolescents. A quantitative research design was employed with 60 Grade 12 STEM students selected through stratified sampling. The intervention involved the implementation of Project HIP, a technology-integrated nutrition program that combined digital BMI tracking and informational modules. Data were gathered through pretest and posttest assessments and survey questionnaires. Statistical tools such as mean, standard deviation, and the Wilcoxon signed-rank test were used to determine differences before and after the intervention, while a four-point Likert scale assessed student perceptions of the program’s effectiveness. Mean nutritional-knowledge scores increased from 16.57 (proficient) on the pretest to 22.38 (highly proficient) on the posttest. The change as statistically significant. Students strongly agreed (composite mean = 3.34) that Project HIP supported their understanding of nutrition, BMI awareness, and weight management, and reported positive changes in dietary behavior and lifestyle choices. The findings suggest that Project HIP supported students’ nutritional knowledge and awareness through accessible, interactive digital resources. Reported behavioral changes were based on respondents’ perceptions and should not be interpreted as independently verified health outcomes. The malformed p-value must be corrected before publication, and longer-term evaluation would be needed to determine whether knowledge and behavior changes are sustained.