In this series of activities you will explore the Characteristics of Effective Health Education Curriculum through short activities that examine examples of these characteristics and in some cases, identify not so effective practices that you should avoid.
Charcteristics 10 - 14
10. Incorporates learning strategies, teaching methods, and materials that are culturally inclusive
Curricular materials are free of culturally biased information but also include information, activities, and examples that are inclusive of diverse cultures and lifestyles, such as gender, race, ethnicity, religion, age, physical/mental ability, and appearance. Strategies promote values, attitudes, and behaviors that support the cultural diversity of students; optimize relevance to students from multiple cultures in the school community; strengthen the skills that are necessary to engage intercultural interactions; and build on the cultural resources of families and communities. For examples of this characteristic.
11. Provides adequate time for instruction and learning
Curricula use adequate time to promote understanding of key health concepts and to practice skills. Effecting change requires an intensive and sustained effort. Short-term or “one-shot” curricula (e.g., a few hours at one grade level) are generally insufficient to support the adoption and maintenance of healthy behaviors. For examples of this characteristic.
12 Provides opportunities to reinforce skills and positive health behaviors
Curricula build on previously learned concepts and skills and provide opportunities to reinforce health-promoting skills across health topic areas and grade levels, such as multiple practice applications of a skill and skill “booster” sessions at subsequent grade levels or in other academic subject areas. Curricula that address age-appropriate determinants of behavior across grade levels and reinforce and build on learning are more likely to achieve long-lasting results. For examples of this characteristic.
13. Provides opportunities to make connections with other influential persons
Curricula link students to other influential persons who affirm and reinforce health-promoting norms, beliefs, and behaviors. Instructional strategies build on protective factors that promote healthy behaviors and enable students to avoid or reduce health risk behaviors by engaging peers, parents, families, and other positive adult role models in student learning.For examples of this characteristic.
14. Includes teacher information and plans for professional development and training to enhance effectiveness of instruction and student learning
Curricula are implemented by teachers who have a personal interest in promoting positive health behaviors, believe in what they are teaching, are knowledgeable about the curriculum content, and are comfortable and skilled in implementing expected instructional strategies. Ongoing professional development and training are critical in helping teachers implement a new curriculum or implement strategies that require new skills in teaching or assessment. For examples of this characteristic.