Evaluation of training effects on teacher attitudes and concerns prior to implementing a human sexuality education program.

Teacher changes in knowledge, attitudes, and concerns about teaching a new human sexuality education curriculum due to inservice training were examined; 59 middle school teachers were surveyed before and after one week of training. Significant (p less than .05) increases in knowledge, perceptions of importance of teaching the curriculum, intent to teach, and level of comfort with course content suggest areas of positive learner changes. Effects were not noted for sexual orientation (liberal vs. conservative) or responsibility for student outcomes. Relationships (p less than .05) were noted between comfort, importance, responsibility, and intent to teach with expectations of how students, colleagues, administrators, parents, and community would respond, as well as perceptions of curriculum congruence with teaching style and the adequacy of preparation to teach the curriculum. Few responses were associated with teacher personal characteristics.