Discussion+No.1

=Discussion No. 1 = =Sexuality and Curriculum Instruction =

= = = = ===Many people support the instruction of sex education classes in schools, but the content covered and the responsibility for teaching this curriculum often varies from district to district. Sex education may be integrated into different subject areas such as English language arts, science, and social studies, or it may be assigned to teachers in specialist areas such as physical education, health, and guidance. School nurses, doctors, psychologists, and community health support personnel may also be asked to provide more specialized instruction as required. Sex education is sometimes taught as an independent unit of instruction that often requires parental permission in order to participate. ===

=== As stated in the presentation, the Canadian Public Health Agency developed the document //Canadian Guidelines for Sexual Health Education//. They recommend a number of ways of improving sexual health education in Canada. One recommendation of particular interest to the area of curriculum development states: ===

=== //"Adolescence is only one phase in a life-long process of sexual development and learning. Sexuality is a central and positive part of the total well-being of young people and, as a result, comprehensiveness of sexual health education for children, adolescents and young adults involves far more than the prevention of unintended pregnancy and STI/HIV education. **Sexual health education should include an understanding of developmental changes (e.g., puberty), rewarding interpersonal relationships, developing communication skills, setting of personal limits, developing media literacy, challenging of stereotypes, prevention of STI/HIV, effective contraception methods, information on sexual assault/coercion, sexual orientation and gender identity and a critical examination of evolving gender-roles and expectations**." (Canadian Guidelines for Sexual Health Education, p.22)// ===


 * === Are all of these topics being covered by current sex education classes? Should they all be covered in school? ===


 * === What information is appropriate at what grade level? ===


 * === What is the best method for teaching sex education? Should it be taught in one unit in a specific class? Should it be incorporated into a variety of subjects? Should it be taught by guest speakers such as public health officials or by teachers in the school? ===

=== Discuss how sexual health education is currently being taught in your school and/or how you wish it was taught in your school. Please use the discussion area on this page in order to participate in the conversation. ===