Design, Implementation, and Evaluation of an Electronic Course of Sexual Health Education for Young Adults (18–35 Years): An Exploratory Sequential Mixed-Methods Study Protocol

Abstract

Background and Aims: Sexual health education is crucial for young adults well-being, yet effective interventions are lacking in Iran. E-learning offers a promising avenue to deliver comprehensive sexual health education, tailored to the cultural context and diverse needs of Iranian young adults. This mixed-methods study with an exploratory sequential design aims to design, implement, and evaluate an electronic sexual health education course for Iranian young adults (18–35 years). The study has two phases: 1. needs assessment and course design, and 2. course implementation and evaluation. Methods and Analysis: Phase one involves a systematic review of e-learning interventions and national/international guidelines, followed by qualitative research to explore young adults and key informants' perspectives on sexual health educational needs. These findings will inform the design and development of the e-course. Phase two will be a randomized controlled trial (RCT) involving nonmedical science students at Guilan University. The intervention group will receive the e-course, while the control group will not. Outcomes will be assessed using validated questionnaires, focusing on sexual health. Ethics and Dissemination: This protocol has been approved by the Ethics Committee of the Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran (code number: IR.SHMU.REC.1403.085). All the steps/methods will be performed in accordance with the relevant guidelines and regulations. Ethical Code: IR.SHMU.REC.1403.085. URL: https://ethics.research.ac.ir/EthicsProposalView.php?id=494573. PROSPERO Registration Number: CRD42024573968, CRD42024578450. Trial Registration: Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT): IRCT20210313050689N1. URL: https://irct.behdasht.gov.ir/trial/79322.