Practical knowledge of special education teachers gained from sexual human rights education classes for students with IDD in a special school majoring course

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to explore the practical knowledge of special education teachers acquired in sexual rights education lessons for students with intellectual disabilities in a special school majoring course. Method: This study applied an action research method, involving one researcher, four classroom observers, five students with intellectual disabilities in a special school majoring course, and one sex education specialist. Data collected during a total of 5 lessons were analyzed using a comprehensive analysis procedure. Results: The research results consisted of 4 main categories, which were 'Sexual rights education as a fundamental right', 'Sexual rights education preparing for social life', 'Collaboration for sexual rights education', and 'Exploring sexual rights education for special education teachers', along with 12 subcategories and 38 meaning units. Conclusion and suggestion: It was identified that a sexual rights-based approach for students with intellectual disabilities, education tailored to students with intellectual disabilities in majoring course, collaboration among sex education specialists, special education teachers, and parents are necessary. Furthermore, it was noted that more specialized training and on-site support for special education teachers are important. Additionally, it was suggested that various action research for sexual rights education of students with disabilities and liaised researches between schools and families are needed.