Date of Graduation

Spring 5-18-2018

Document Access

Project/Capstone - Global access

Degree Name

Master of Arts in International and Multicultural Education (IME)

College/School

School of Education

Department/Program

International and Multicultural Education (IME)

First Advisor

Manuel Alejandro Pérez

Abstract

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) are huge problems in South Africa. HIV is a disease that attacks a person’s immune system and, if not properly treated, can lead to AIDS. While there is a treatment—antiretroviral drugs—HIV remains a highly stigmatized disease. This field project focuses on reducing stigma so people are unafraid to get tested or seek treatment. Created to benefit both teachers and their learners, the goal of this mathematics curriculum (consisting of 12 lesson plans and worksheets) is to begin HIV/AIDS awareness in school so accurate information is learned and stigma is reduced. The 12 lesson plans developed integrates HIV/AIDS content into the South African government-issued grade 4 curriculum. Each lesson plan reviews the mathematical concept being taught at that time, and also covers one component of HIV. HIV topics include transmission, statistical breakdowns by demographic factors, and HIV positive mothers. The data used in the lesson plans are based on current South African data. While education in the current school system is a promising tool to combat stigma related to HIV, additional research and considerations must be taken before implementation. This project has not researched the legal ramifications or barriers integration of HIV material may face in South Africa. A slow rollout with pilot testing is recommended. The information will need to be regularly updated based on current research. If successfully implemented, this curriculum has the possibility to bring great change in South Africa.

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