Characterization of the Nutritionist in the teaching role in National Programs of Nutrition and Dietetics

Abstract

Teaching in Nutrition and Dietetics (N&D) programs, especially in specialized courses, is performed by professional nutritionists, who do not necessarily have training in teaching. The objective of this study was to
characterize the sociodemographic, work, academic, and teacher training and induction aspects of nutritionists who teach in national programs. A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out by means of an online survey to teachers of different N&D programs that are part of the Council of Rectors of Chilean Universities (CRUCH). Seventy-four complete responses were obtained, where it was observed that the professors are mostly women, under 40 years of age, with a master's degree, working on contract, full time, spending most of their time on teaching and administrative management. With respect to induction and training in teaching, only 33.8% say they have had it, while 64.9% have a diploma in this area. The work characteristics are heterogeneous among the teaching staff, and the low level of induction to teaching and the absence of minimum training and/or perfectioning to practice this role, which demands more and more preparation to face current challenges, are a matter of concern.