RESOURCES:Sex Education: What teenagers want....

Using effectiveness research to guide the development of school sex education


By: BMA Foundation for AIDS
Health Education Authority
Sex Education Forum

Published in 1997 by the BMA Foundation for AIDS, BMA House, Tavistock Square, London WC1H 9JP

Research has identified some common characteristics of effective sex education programmes. It has shown that some sex education programmes do encourage young people to delay first intercourse and use contraception at their first intercourse.

It is however important that the effectiveness of sex education is rigorously evaluated
to consider
 effective implementation
 success in terms of developing understanding, knowledge and attitudes
 success of the programme in terms of developing practical skills
success in terms of affecting behaviour and health.

Effectiveness should not be defined solely in terms of behaviour change or health outcomes. Except in very large studies, it is unlikely that research will be able to detect direct effects of sex education on sexual behaviour and health.

A range of different research methods is needed in order to understand the effectiveness of different approaches to sex education. Large scale experimental designs (randomised controlled trials) may be necessary to identify behavioural change. However, smaller qualitative studies are needed to make sense of these results and to support the development of practice.

Research funders should seek to ensure that research is realistic, and that it will have a positive impact on the development of educational practice, and that it complements and builds upon existing research findings. Funders should also seek to promote collaboration between different research projects and to facilitate the dissemination of research findings to practitioners.

In summary, research methodology and outcomes must be appropriate and relevant to sex education practice, if research findings are to lead to more effective education. Researchers and practitioners need to cooperate more closely and strategically to ensure the development of good practice and research and work with cultural and religious leaders to provide some of the sensitivity highlighted in Diverse Communities

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