Piloting a Research-Oriented Teaching Model in a Bachelor Program for Social Educators – A Way to Increase Competence in Research Methodology and Sexual Health?

Abstract

Background: Sexual health is a new and important area for social educator students, relevant for research and pedagogical development. Integration of ongoing research projects when teaching scientific theory can improve students’ subject-related skills, expertise in research methodology, and assessment of research results. Problem: The triple aim of this pilot project was to test research-oriented teaching, enhance learning about sexual health, and to explore the validity of the SA-SH-Ext questionnaire. Theoretical Approach: Using research-oriented teaching when teaching novel topics such as sexual health presents opportunities to deepen reflections on both research methodology and social educator students’ attitudes towards addressing sexual health with users. Method: Integration with theoretical education of the research project was carried out alongside testing of face validity and content validity, as well as group discussions with social educator students. A teaching session on sexual health was also conducted. The results from the survey were presented to the students afterwards. Results: The students appreciated the research-oriented teaching, the results showed educational needs concern- ing sexual health, and were useful for the psychometric development of SA-SH-Ext. Conclusion: The pilot project shows promising findings both regarding the students’ learning outcome, and the validation of SA-SH-Ext, but must be followed up by additional research.