Comprehensive Sexuality Education in Initial Teacher Training in Chile: Perceptions of Teacher Trainers.

AbstractComprehensive sexuality education involves intentional, progressive and systematic learning about the cognitive, emotional, biological and social aspects of sexuality. To identify how this occurs within higher education contexts, this study is conducted to describe the perceptions of teacher trainers about the relationship between comprehensive sexuality education and initial teacher training. Using a qualitative, semi-structured approach, 54 teacher trainers from eight universities in Santiago, Chile, were interviewed. Data analysis was carried out through content analysis and aided by the use of NVivo software. The participants expressed positive perceptions regarding the integration of the subject into mainstream educational curricula. The findings highlight the need for training programmes that develop content and strategies for future teaching practices. We conclude that promoting and protecting sexual and reproductive rights requires understanding of the challenge of implementing comprehensive sexuality education that is supported and regulated by public educational policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]