Electronic Journal of Human Sexuality, Volume 6, May 6, 2003

www.ejhs.org

Sexuality Education On-line for Health Professionals

Weerakoon, P., Wong, M.

ABSTRACT

Sexuality education is accepted as an integral part of health professional training. However the introduction of sexuality in the training programs is limited by the lack of time in the curriculum and the availability of resources. In addition, the nature of sexuality is such that while there is a ìcoreî area that all health professionals require, individuals need specific areas of knowledge and skills. This flexibility is difficult to meet in a standard education program. This paper describes the development, implementation and evaluation of an on-line (web-based) sexuality education program for health professionals. The program is developed on the PLISSIT management model, with each of the first 3 stages forming a stage in the learning process. Learning is structured around extensive on-line resources, with individual and group activities. These activities are supported by on-line communication tools including discussion forum, email and a synchronous chat space. Some learning activities such as interviews and field visits were conducted off-line. Students appreciated the flexibility of the program in terms of time and place of learning as well as the choice of topics for study. They also enjoyed the opportunity to interact with fellow students and the coordinator.
 
 

Table of Contents
Introduction
Description of the program:
On-line instructional methodology
Knowledge: required and desired
Attitude and value clarification
Group work
Experiential learning
Future plans for the course
Conclusion
References

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