Samtyckesundervisning i biologi och naturkunskap : Lärares uppfattningar, anpassningar och utmaningar i ljuset av läroplansförändringar ; Consent teaching in biology and natural science : Teachers’ perceptions, adaptions, and challenges in the light of curriculum changes

Knowledge about the importance of consent is crucial regarding several aspects. Previous studies demonstrate the need for extended discussion platforms for consent and that school plays a large role in conveying information about the area. It is also noted that this type of teaching is deficient. To emphasize the importance of consent, curriculum revisions were introduced in July 2022, which clearly focus attention on consent teaching. This study investigates the implementation of the new curriculum changes regarding the area Sexuality, consent, and relations in biology- and natural science teaching at the secondary and upper secondary school levels. The focus is on the insertion of a clearer framework for consent teaching. The purpose of this study is to enhance understanding of teachers’ efforts and challenges in consent teaching within the subjects of biology and natural science. To investigate the purpose of the study, qualitative interviews with seven qualified biology- and natural science teachers, both from secondary and high school levels, were carried out. From the results of the study, a clear discrepancy was identified between positive attitudes towards the changes and the actual implementation identified. The results revealed obstacles, such as limited theoretical support and professional development, to realizing pedagogical changes. In terms of teaching methods, the teachers conduct teaching that mainly resolves around discussions, which is in line with the research’s implications of good consent teaching. On the other hand, there is a lack of continuous conversations and interdisciplinary work. The study therefore emphasizes the importance of involving teachers from various subjects to ensure holistic teaching. Finally, the findings highlight a particular challenge of engaging young men in consent education, requiring strategies to include their perspectives and make them understand the meaning of consent. The conclusions highlight the need that it is insufficient to introduce new guidelines ...