|
The practical knowledge, skills, attitudes and
beliefs that are a pre-requisite for health behaviour change should be
delivered in comprehensive K-12 curricula that covers health,
personal/social development, physical education and family studies/home
economics as well as appropriate coverage integrated within other
subjects/curricula.
The following structural
elements need to be included in an effective health education program:
·
there is a
comprehensive health education program, which in turn, is part of a
personal and social development program
·
active
learning and teaching methods
·
good
in-service education for teachers
·
active
student involvement in instruction and through peer leadership and
education in the classroom and the school
Effective
Teaching Methods in Health Education
Research has identified
several characteristics of effective teaching in health education. They
are:
·
Effective
use of small group discussions
·
Effective
use of the arts, drama, literature
·
Communicating with parents
·
Setting
ground rules
·
Dealing
with questions in class
·
Knowing
how to respond to disclosures of possible abuse or assault
·
Providing
appropriate take away materials
As well, the
teaching/learning methods selected should reflect the outcome being
sought in the classroom. For example:
| General Outcome |
Teaching Learning Method
|
|
Awareness |
Lectures, Group
Work, Video/Media, Displays, Exhibitions, Brochures
|
|
Knowledge |
Lectures, One to
One teaching, Written Materials, Research Assignments, Group Work,
Reading Assignments, Internet Assignments
|
Self-Awareness,
Attitude Change,
Decision-making |
Group Work,
Clarifying/Discussing Values, Journaling, Ranking, Categorizing,
Role Playing
|
|
Behaviour Change |
Group Work, Self
monitoring, Identifying benefits/risks, Setting goals, targets,
Devising Coping strategies, Accessing social support, Accessing
support services, Overcoming physical, economic, practical
barriers
|
|
Changing the
Environment |
Advocacy,
Community service |
|
