How Should I Teach Sex Education in Middle School? An Action Research Study on an ICT-based Intervention

Abstract

In this article, we, Diana, Álvaro and Irma, present findings from an action research project aiming to promote self-care behaviors around sexual and reproductive health (SBSRH) in adolescents at a public school in Colombia through the use of ICT-based learning environments. I, Diana, the teacher-researcher carried out an action research study first reflecting on teaching practices for teaching healthy sexual behaviors, then assessing them in light of theoretical recommendations, and finally by creating a blended-learning project called “Self-Care in Action”. Irma was the action-research advisor and Álvaro the ICT-research and development advisor. Two groups of 7th graders participated in the project. We collected and analyzed qualitative data to document changes in student behaviors and perceptions. Since the pedagogical intervention, a favorable change occurred in the students regarding their knowledge, attitude, and intention to practice SBSRH. The results shed light on the complexity of developing healthy sexual behaviors in adolescents and provide a guide for designing a meaningful class project to encourage this transformation. The findings here are relevant for teachers, health advocates and policy makers striving to create effective school-based sex education programs.