An outcome evaluation of a professional development opportunity focusing on sexuality education for early learning professionals

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Date
21-Apr
Authors
Balter, Alice-Simone
Gores, Deborah
van Rhijn, Tricia
Katz, Jennifer
Kassies, Irene
Gleason, Mary
Joseph, Janelle
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
eceLINK Peer Reviewed Collection
Abstract

This outcome evaluation assesses the impact of a one-day professional development opportunity in sexuality education for early learning professionals. A non-experimental pre-test/post-test research design evaluated the experiences of 28 participants. Thematic analysis and paired samples t-tests analyzed the perceived impacts and differences between pre- and post-test assessments. Positive changes were demonstrated in participants’ (a) perceptions of their daily practice, specifically increases in knowledge, comfort, and confidence in answering children’s questions about sexuality, and increased communication between staff and parents; and (b) preparedness to address sexuality in early learning settings. Recommendations for practice aim to increase professional capacity and provide the necessary support for early learning professionals.

Description
Keywords
child development, early childhood education, early learning, professional development, program evaluation, public health, sexuality education
Citation
Balter, A., Gores, D., van Rhijn, T., Katz, J., Kassies, I., Gleason, M., & Joseph, J. (2021). An outcome evaluation of a professional development opportunity focusing on sexuality education for early learning professionals. eceLINK Peer Reviewed Collection, 5(1), 18-32.
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