Erfarenheter av undervisning i hälsa. Biologi- och naturkunskapslärares upplevelser och erfarenheter av den egna undervisningen i hälsa samt gymnasieskolans hälsofrämjande arbete

Abstract

Health is a complex concept that includes physical, psychological and social aspect and a prerequisite for learning. In the last 30 years there has been a decline in the mental health off school children. This is attributed to changes in the Swedish school system. Health education is highlighted as the most important measure to strengthen mental health in children. Health promotion and health education are part of the mission of Swedish schools. At upper secondary school level, health education is Included in the subject biology and natural sciences. The purpose of the study is to investigate high school teachers' experiences of health education in biology and natural science. Furthermore, the teachers' view of the school's health promotion work is examined. Five semi-structured interviews were conducted with secondary school teachers in biology and natural science. The teachers describe students' prior knowledge as a resource in teaching. The importance of a critical approach is highlighted as students' prior knowledge is not necessarily anchored in a scientific definition of health. Mental health is seen as important but its place in the courses is more unclear. Teaching mental health requires finesse and is seen as a sensitive subject. Teachers see good examples of the schools' health-promoting work but mention varying commitment from student health teams and shortcomings in school management as areas of development. The results resonate well with research in the field. Previous research highlights the importance of a critical approach to health claims, a one-sided focus on physical health and the importance of a solid education in mental health. Desired measures are investments in health education and health promotion in school, which requires resources and clearer wordings in the school's governing documents. Furthermore, there is a need for evidence based continuing education for teachers in how mental health education is carried out in an effective way.