Abstract:

Enhancing college students' awareness of human reproduction, contraception, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is crucial in today's prevalent STI landscape, with significant economic and social implications. Understanding young people's views and experiences toward sexual health and education's role in preventing STIs is pivotal. This study piloted a learning object (LO) on STIs as part of a lab activity in an Introductory Biology course. We surveyed college students to gauge their awareness of these topics and examine the role of education in promoting sexual health. Methods included qualitative analysis of a student survey, instructor reflections on educational practices, and the use of LOs related to STIs. Findings highlighted the need for education on STIs, contraception methods, and human reproduction, focusing on emotive learning and behavioral change rather than solely on knowledge, which may lead to fear. The survey, primarily completed by female students, may not fully represent the student population. Further studies are needed with a larger and more diverse respondent pool. A primary recommendation is to employ LOs, a framework for education and action for STI prevention, involving experiential learning addressing knowledge, emotions, relevance, and empowerment. This study contributes to the limited knowledge base on experiential learning and sexual health.

Keywords:

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), College Students, Attitudes, Learning Objects, Communities of Practice.