The Face of HIV/AIDS: People with HIV/AIDS as Educators

Abstract:
This publication offers guidance for teachers on inviting speakers with HIV to give presentations in the classroom. The first section, "Why Use HIV Positive Individuals?" describes the benefits of such presentations, noting that "teens begin to understand that HIV can happen to real people with ordinary lives." Another section, "Comprehensive HIV Education," discusses the fact that a session featuring an educator with HIV should be part of a comprehensive HIV education program. It lists characteristics of effective programs, including the use of a variety of teaching methods and activities that address social pressures. A section called "Special Training for Educators with HIV" suggests working with a local program that provides speakers trained to work with adolescents in a classroom setting, and it mentions specific types of training to look for. "Preparing the Class" describes classroom discussions that should take place before the presentation. The section "How to Approach Your School" includes ideas for meeting with school administrators and gaining community support. This section does not, however, mention consulting relevant school district policies. The last section, "They're Gone, Now What?" provides suggestions for conducting a follow-up session after the presentation. A resource list includes contact information for the National Association of People with AIDS Speakers Bureau and the AIDS Memorial Quilt. Overall, the brochure helps to make a potentially intimidating topic more manageable, providing useful information and ideas in a helpful, easy-to-follow way.


Date Published: 1/1/1998

Pages: 4

Location Code: 2103