Moving towards a holistic paradigm: Teaching sexuality education in a New Zealand University

Abstract

Aim: Using a qualitative approach, the aim was to investigate the existence of a change in the basic assumptions, or paradigms, in tertiary health education students following a sexuality education course. Study Design: Qualitative research using Nvivo analysis was utilised. Place and Duration of the Study: The research took place at the University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand between July and October, 2014. Methodology: The sample included 21 students enrolled in a sexuality education course. The majority of students were health education majors in the Bachelor of Health Sciences degree. All students completed pre- and post-course questionnaires and a random sample of the students were also selected to participate in focus group discussions. Students were questioned regarding their understanding of sexuality, their perceptions of sexuality issues facing New Zealanders, and changes in their ideas about sexuality education resulting from the course. Results: Data analysis of the pre-course questionnaires and focus groups found students understandings and beliefs regarding sexuality education were mainly situated within a biomedical paradigm emphasizing the physical aspects of an individual’s sexuality. Post-course data suggested a shift towards a more holistic understanding of sexuality, the development and appreciation of a broader understanding of sexuality issues facing New Zealanders, and a marked paradigm shift in ideas around the concept of sexuality. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that sexuality education programmes framed within a holistic paradigm and underpinned by sound pedagogical practices have the potential to facilitate an expansion of ideas and attitudes about the construction of sexuality education