The population for this study consists of all the Monday, Wednesday, and Friday
morning scheduled Grade 12 students enrolled at St. Clare College of Caloocan for the
academic year 2024–2025, totalling approximately 441 students. This population was
selected because these are the students accessible during the scheduled time frame, which
allows the researchers to efficiently gather data for the survey. Limiting the population to
students with a specific schedule ensures consistency in the study while providing a sufficient
number of participants to explore the research questions effectively.
The study will use random sampling to ensure that every student in the population has
an equal opportunity to be selected. Random sampling was chosen because it minimizes
selection bias, which could occur if certain groups were over- or underrepresented. By
randomly selecting students, the sample will likely reflect the diversity of the Grade 12
population in terms of academic performance, socio-economic background, and other
relevant variables. This method enhances the representativeness of the sample and allows for
the generalization of the findings to the larger Grade 12 population. Random sampling is
particularly important in this study, as it ensures that the data collected provides an accurate
and unbiased picture of the student body’s ice cream preferences and consumption patterns.
A sample size of 205 students will be drawn from the population. This size was
determined based on both practical considerations and statistical guidelines. Given the time
constraints of the study, a sample size of 205 allows for the collection of data within the
allotted timeframe, while still being large enough to detect meaningful relationships between
variables, such as the potential influence of gender, age, or academic performance on ice
cream consumption. The sample size also balances the need for statistical power with the
logistical feasibility of managing the data collection process.
The inclusion criteria for participants are as follows: students who enjoy eating ice
cream, are currently enrolled in Grade 12, and are available for participation during the
scheduled survey periods. This ensures that the participants are both relevant to the research
question and available during data collection. Students who do not meet these criteria, such as
those who do not eat ice cream, are allergic to it, or have conditions like arthritis that might
limit their consumption, will be excluded from the study. This exclusion is necessary to
maintain the integrity and focus of the research, ensuring that the findings specifically reflect
the behaviors and preferences of students who regularly consume ice cream.
By selecting 205 students using random sampling, the study ensures that the sample is
representative of the broader Grade 12 population at St. Clare College. This representative
sample will allow the findings on ice cream preferences and consumption behaviors to be
generalized to the wider student body, contributing valuable insights into the dietary habits
and preferences of adolescents. Such insights may be useful for understanding broader trends
in student nutrition and for informing the development of school policies or programs related
to student health and well-being.