Curriculum development in sexual health/ reproductive health in Turkey

Abstract

An examination of the problems experienced in the area of sexual health/reproductive health (SH/RH) in Turkey reveals that women confront many problems, particularly during their reproductive years. To resolve these problems it is clear that the participation of nurses, who are such a large part of the health care workforce, cannot be ignored. Accordingly, this study was conducted for the purpose of improving the curriculum and students' clinical skills in SH/RH at Baskent University Health Sciences Faculty Nursing and Health Services Division. In this study, the current SH/RH curriculum was reviewed, needs were determined and the number of hours and distribution of topics in the curriculum were revised. More emphasis was given to active educational methods that will ensure the participation of students in practical classes as well as including more visual educational materials. Modern educational models that facilitate learning by doing were included in the curriculum. Students were assessed using indicators defining practice. According to the assessment results, students achieved a success level between 30% and 80%, and students‘ opinions about their skills laboratory practice and clinical practice indicated positively that the majority (90%) achieved the practice learning goals.