Foundational Best Practices for Online Sexuality Education

Abstract

An increasing number of colleges and universities are moving toward online education (Allen & Seaman, 2011; Farnsworth & Bevis, 2006). While there are reservations about the effectiveness of teaching sexuality education online, it is essential that formally trained sexuality educators participate proactively in this paradigm shift. By embracing these opportunities, sexuality educators are able to reach students who may otherwise not have the opportunity or desire to participate in formal sexuality education. Based largely on the experiences of the authors, this article presents a foundational framework of best practices for teaching human sexuality courses online at the college and university level and offers concrete strategies for those developing online sexuality curricula.