The Effect of Educational Intervention on Knowledge, Attitude and Performance of High School Girl Students about AIDS

Abstract

<em>Introduction: </em><br/>Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) is one of the most complex problems of health in the world. Since young population and mostly students are one of main groups at risk, this study was conducted to evaluate the effect of educational intervention on knowledge, attitude and performance of high school students about AIDS. <br/><em>Materials and Methods</em><em>: </em><br/>This quasi-experimental study was conducted on 60 girls selected randomly from two public schools and they divided into two control and intervention groups. Research tool was a researcher-made questionnaire including two parts (demographic questions and specialized questions about AIDS). Firstly, a pretest was held, then 3 educational sessions were held on AIDS, its' transmission and prevention ways by lecture, ask and answer, and educational pamphlet. Students took posttests immediately after educational intervention and two months later. Data were analyzed by statistical tests including chi-square test, paired t test, independent t, and Rapid Manager and using SPSS 13. <br/> <br/><em>Results: </em><br/>Mean score of participants' knowledge about HIV was 16.8±3.8 before intervention; it increased to 24.4±3.1 immediately, and 24.5±3.1 two months after intervention (P<0.001). Mean score of participants' attitude about HIV was 58.5±7.5 before intervention; it increased to 69.2±6.0 immediately, and 72.4±6.7 two months after intervention (P<0.001). Moreover, mean score of participants' performance about HIV was 2.4±1.4 before intervention; it increased to 4.6±1.4 immediately, and 4.8±1.2 two months after intervention (P<0.001). <br/> <br/><em>Conclusion</em><em>: </em><br/>Findings showed that this educational intervention improved students' knowledge, attitude and performance. So, executing educational programs in schools, with a focus on common diseases, should be seriously considered by school officials and health managers.