Comparing In-Person and Online Sexual Health Education Program Delivery: Youth Perspectives and Short-Term Outcomes

Offering group-based sexual health education online can expand access to information for youth. However, few studies have examined how student perceptions and outcomes may vary by teaching modality, particularly in sexual health education. This study compared the perceptions and short-term outcomes of participants completing In the Know, a comprehensive sexual health curriculum, in-person versus online. A total of 528 youth aged 13-19 were recruited through schools and community-based organizations in Fresno County, California. In-person participants (n = 359) were enrolled from December 2018 to February 2020 and online participants (n = 169) from August 2020 to August 2021, during the COVID-19 pandemic. We surveyed all participants at program entry and exit to measure changes in sexual health knowledge, attitudes, confidence in life skills, and program perceptions, which we compared between in-person and online participants. In-person and online participants had similar age and racial/ethnic characteristics, but online participants were less likely to live in rural areas or in settings such as group homes. Participants in both delivery modes showed statistically significant improvements in their sexual health knowledge and attitudes as well as life skills confidence. More than 80% participants were interested in the material and felt it was clear, regardless of delivery mode. With sufficient planning and health educator training, online sexual health education can be a feasible and appropriate alternative to in-person programming. When considering online implementation, programs should adopt approaches to minimize inequities in participation, maintain participant confidentiality, and promote engagement.