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