At its core, evidence-based RSE involves using research, data, and best practices to inform the content, delivery, and evaluation of sex education provision. Rather than relying on anecdotal evidence or personal beliefs, evidence-based RSE prioritises information and approaches that have been validated and proven effective in promoting positive sexual health outcomes.
The World Health Organisation (2006) defines sexual health as a “state of physical, emotional, mental and social well-being in relation to sexuality; it is not merely the absence of disease, dysfunction or infirmity. Sexual health requires a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships, as well as the possibility of having pleasurable and safe sexual experiences, free of coercion, discrimination and violence. For sexual health to be attained and maintained, the sexual rights of all persons must be respected, protected and fulfilled.”
Types of Evidence in RSE
Research Evidence: Studies and research findings provide critical insights into the effectiveness of different RSE programmes, interventions, and teaching methods. Research helps identify which approaches are most successful for anything from reducing the transmission of STIs and encouraging health checks to promoting healthy relationships and preventing sexual and gender-based violence. Sex Education in schools
Data Evidence: Data collected from surveys, assessments, and programme evaluations offer tangible evidence of the impact of RSE initiatives on student knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours. By analysing data, educators and policymakers can assess the effectiveness of existing programmes and make informed decisions about future initiatives.
Practice-Based Evidence: Insights from educators and professionals working in the field of RSE contribute to a body of practice-based evidence. Educators' experiences, observations, and feedback provide valuable information about the implementation and effectiveness of RSE programmes in real-world settings. Sex Education in schools
Why Evidence-Based RSE Matters:
Promoting Healthier Outcomes: Evidence-based RSE equips young people with accurate, age-appropriate information about relationships, consent, contraception, and STI prevention. By providing comprehensive and evidence-based education, RSE programmes empower young people to make decisions to improve their health and wellbeing, seek support when needed and to feel less overwhelmed when faced with the complexities of navigating romantic and sexual relationships in their lives, often with only social media, depictions of sexual relationships in mainstream media (including pornography) and each other to guide their choices and behaviour. Sex Education in schools
Reducing Health Disparities: Access to quality RSE is essential for addressing health disparities and promoting reproductive justice. Racial and socioeconomic inequality manifests in sexual health outcomes and access to services. For example, we know that minoritised groups, such as members for the LGBTQ+ community and black and asian people, are less likely access to sexual health services than their heterosexual / white counterparts. Evidence-based programmes can help reduce disparities in sexual health outcomes among different demographic groups by ensuring that all young people receive accurate, inclusive, non-judgemental, and culturally competent education.
Supporting Student Well-Being: Comprehensive RSE goes beyond imparting factual information about biology; it also addresses issues relevant to sociology, ethics, anthropology, politics, media studies and mental healthcare. Facilitating young people to engage critically and sensitively with topics such as consent, gender and sexuality, sexual violence, pornography and healthy relationships significantly impacts how they engage with their own identities and intimate relationships in their day to day life. Evidence-based RSE programmes promotes students’ overall health and wellbeing by supporting the development of key life skills including emotional regulation, digital literacy, effective communication, boundary-keeping, self-awareness, safe bystander intervention and empathy for those with different experiences. Sex Education in schools
Empowering Decision-Making: By providing young people with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to make informed choices about their bodies and relationships, evidence-based RSE promotes autonomy and empowerment. Equipped with accurate information, critical thinking skills, and empathy, young people are better prepared to navigate complex issues related to sexuality and relationships including holding themselves accountable for harmful behaviour they may enact or be tempted to enact.
By incorporating research, data, and best practices into RSE initiatives, educators and policymakers ensure that young people receive accurate, inclusive, and empowering education that prepares them for healthy and fulfilling relationships throughout their lives. Sex Education in schools
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