Quality of Life Profile, Overweight-Obesity and Sedentary Behavior in Elementary and High School Children of Guanacaste

The purpose of this study was to identify the quality of life profile, overweight-obesity and sedentary behavior in a group of elementary and high school children of Guanacaste. 635 students participated in the study. The participants completed a protocol by which they were anthropometrically evaluated, and also filled up a questionnaire related to sedentary behavior and quality of life. In general, the findings reflected a prevalence of overweight and obesity of 13, 9%. The most important sedentary activities were, in descending order, the small screen (watching TV, video games, computer), and certain social and cultural activities. The self-reported quality of life index was within acceptable limits but not exceeding 80 points on a scale of 1-100. There was no significant relationship between the rate of the overall quality of life, overweight, obesity and some sedentary behaviors, although some anthropometric parameters like percentage of body fat and body weight showed significant correlation with sedentary behavior and specific aspects belonging to quality of life. The study provides valuable information to health authorities, directors of educational institutions and parents about key issues related to child development.

Proposal for the creation of a Center for Learning Resources (CRA) in the School of San Lorenzo de Tarrazu

Education is the basis for economic and social development, but there are great inequalities in education and access to documentary resources, audiovisual and technology, a situation that affects school performance. The Organization of the United Nations Educational and Scientific Organization (UNESCO) found a correlation between levels of inequality in a country and performance: the greater the inequality, the worse the performance. Investment in education affects human development and benefit is obtained for the individual and society, which is necessary to ensure social equity, so that there is quality education for all. One of the fundamental purposes of the educational process is to train Costa Rican human thinking, analytical and critical of their environment. The purpose of that is acquired through various methods of academic achievement, learning, participation and constant communication of knowledge between the administrative staff, faculty and students. It is appropriate for schools and colleges have a school library or Resource Center for Learning, it is the gathering, analysis and work of the educational community, working with the intellectual growth of students, faculty, staff and community through access to different services and learning resources provided by the library or CRA.