DIFFUSION OF AIDS CURRICULA AMONG DUTCH SECONDARY-SCHOOL TEACHERS

This study reports data from a sample of 698 Dutch secondary school te achers intending to provide classroom AIDS education. The study addres ses determinants of awareness knowledge about and adoption of four nat ionally disseminated AIDS curricula The results indicated that knowled ge acquisition was largely dependent on diffusion networks within scho ols. Transition from awareness knowledge to adoption appeared to be me diated by perceived instrumentality, subjective norms, perceived colle ague behavior, and teachers' sexual morality. Preferences for using on e curriculum rather than another were related to the same variables, a lthough financial costs became slightly more important. It is conclude d that effective dissemination strategies should combine (1) developme nt of validated materials with clear instruction for implementation, ( 2) focused mass media communication, (3) close collaboration of curric ulum designers, linking agents, and teachers, and (4) access to in-per son assistance.