Changing attitudes through education

Abstract

Adolescence brings about with it the search for a sexual identity. This entails awareness of attitudes, values and beliefs about gender issues. This research project explores this awareness and evaluates the effectiveness of a programme of Personal and Social Education lessons aimed at bringing about gender issue clarification. A survey to find out about the attitudes, values and beliefs of our students is carried out before and after the Gender Issues Awareness lessons. Feedback is also given by the facilitators implementing the programme. From this evaluation it is possible to draw a number of conclusions. In itself the Personal and Social Education programme can be very effective if implemented by trained facilitators and adapted to the needs and abilities of the age group concerned. Consolidation and constant evaluation also need to be carried out if any change in attitudes is to be brought about by education. It is hoped that modification and improvement of the lessons will result from this evaluation, keeping in mind young people outside the school situation as well.