Teacher's perceptions about reproductive health education in schools

ABSTRACT

Reproductive health [RH] programs are increasingly aware of young adults needs. Success in implementing such programs in schools depends largely on adequate teachers' training. The aim of the present study was to identify teachers' knowledge about RH as well as their opinions and perceptions about teaching RH in schools. The studied sample included 432 teachers of both sexes representing different educational levels in three educational sectors in Alexandria. The techniques used were self-administered questionnaire and group discussion. Results revealed that about half of the sample had not heard about the synonym RH before [50.5%] and had poor knowledge about RH [49.1%]. Teachers' qualification, years of experience and type of teaching subject significantly affected their knowledge level. After discussing the concept of RH with the teachers, the great majority perceived importance of RH education and agreed that RH must be taught to their own children in schools. Schools were cited on the top of second preferred sources giving RH information to youth. The majority of the teachers suggested that all RH topics should be incorporated in the future school curriculum. About two-thirds of the sample showed positive attitude towards attending RH training courses. Also, nearly half of the sample expressed high perceived barriers for teaching RH in schools. It is recommended to integrate different topics of RH within formal and informal school programs. Preservice and inservice training of teachers about RH should be earned out