Ideal Sexuality Education from the Perspectives of College Students: Aligning International Guidelines and Education Programs in Japan
List of Authors
Yuki Amaki
Keyword
Comprehensive Sexuality Education, ITGSE, Sexuality Education in Japan, Curriculum Development, College Students
Abstract
This study explores the current challenges facing sexuality education in Japan, focusing on the perspectives of college students whose prior schooling did not include comprehensive sexuality education. Students were asked to design sexuality education programs that they considered ideal for lower elementary, upper elementary, junior high, and high school. A qualitative analysis utilizing KH Coder was conducted to examine the students’ proposals and find common themes. Frequently mentioned topics among the students’ proposed programs included physical development, contraception, sexually transmitted infection prevention, gender diversity, LGBTQ+ inclusion, consent, risk management, violence prevention, and building healthy relationships. The students’ suggestions aligned closely with the International Technical Guidance on Sexuality Education. Significant gaps in Japan’s current sexuality education curriculum were also identified, particularly in relation to gender, rights, and sexual behavior. These findings suggest that incorporating young people’s perspectives can facilitate the development of more practical and inclusive sexuality education programs in Japan. Thus, this study provides helpful insights for future curriculum design and educational policy reforms.