Exploring the HIV/AIDS-Related Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviors of University Students in Botswana

Abstract

Purpose: Because of the serious threat of HIV/AIDS to students at a university in Botswana, faculty instituted two interventions to change students’ HIV/AIDS-related knowledge, attitudes, and behavior: (a) an HIV/AIDS course and (b) the Health and Wellness Centre. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the success of these interventions. Method: A four-group comparison design was created for this study as a method for the qualitative formative evaluation. Data collection was done using the rapid assessment method, in which team interviews of 105 students at the university were conducted. The teams used descriptive, interpretive, and explanatory codes to create themes, which were compared to findings in the literature. Results: Although students indicated significant learning and attitude changes, no major changes in sexually risky behavior were reported. Discussion: Substantive, methodological, and theoretical implications are discussed. © 2008, SAGE Publications. All rights reserved.