Life-skills curriculum for high schools: its effectiveness in AIDS education

Abstract

According to Page, Ebersohn and Rogan (2006) South Africa has one of the highest numbers of HIV positive citizens compared to other countries. Furthermore, epidemiological studies conducted by Pettifor, Reed, Steffenson, Hlongwa-Madikizela, Macphail, Vermaak and Kleinsmidt (2004) have shown that the peak incidence of infection occurs in young people aged l5-24. These studies are supported by Visser (2005) as her studies also showed that secondary school learners have a basic knowledge of HIV/AIDS, but that knowledge on its own is not enough to assure safe sexual behaviour. The prevention of HIV/AIDS among South African leamers is therefore a priority. This study thus hopes to impart a means by which knowledge, attitudes and behaviour can be affected positively. This study had three main aims and consequently three stages. Firstly, to determine and describe for the sample of learners used: their knowledge regarding AIDS/HIV, their attitudes towards AIDS and people with AIDS. Secondly, a Life Skills Training Intervention, The Health Wise South Africa curriculum, was implemented. Thirdly, using a quasi-experimental design, the relative effectiveness of the Health Wise Life Skills curriculum on the sample of learners' knowledge, attitudes and behaviour regarding AIDS/ HIV was evaluated. A convenience sample of 235 Grade eight learners was drawn at a school in the Cape Metropolitan area. Ninety-seven (228) respondents completed the AIDS Attitude Questionnaire