Knowledge Outcomes and Acceptability of a Brief Video-Based Sexual Health Intervention Delivered During Pre-University Orientation: A Single Group Pre-Post Study

Authors: Malanashita Ganeson, Sasikala Devi Amirthalingam, Gaik Kin Teoh, Aida Lina Alias, Kanagamalar Subramaniam, Zainab Abul Majeed, Siew Kim Kwa

ABSTRACT

Background: Sexual health education is integrated in the Malaysian education curriculum. Despite this, studies done among Malaysian university students show varying levels of sexual health knowledge and practices. Entry into tertiary education presents a unique opportunity for sexual health promotion as a primary prevention activity.

Methods: A single group pre-post study was conducted among pre-university students attending a one-hour online sexual health education session held during their orientation programme in a private university in Malaysia. Participants completed a pre-test questionnaire assessing sexual health knowledge, viewed four short educational videos, and completed an immediate post-test questionnaire. Knowledge was assessed using a 19-item instrument mapped to the video content. Paired t-tests were used to evaluate changes in knowledge, with effect sizes calculated. Gender moderation was examined using change scores and independent samples t-tests, with a Mann–Whitney U test as sensitivity analysis. Post-test perception items were analysed descriptively. Exploratory qualitative data from open-ended responses and a small group discussion were analysed.

Results: The mean baseline total sexual health knowledge score was 16.78 (SD 1.40) and increased to 17.82 (SD 1.15) immediately following the video intervention (95% CI 0.77–1.31; p < .001; Cohen’s d = 0.76) (n=101). Knowledge gains did not differ significantly by gender. Most participants reported high perceived usefulness and acceptability of the videos. Small group discussion findings highlighted the importance of gender-inclusive content, consent, and practical guidance on help-seeking.

Discussion: A brief video-based intervention delivered during pre-university orientation was associated with improvements in immediate post-intervention knowledge and was highly acceptable among preuniversity students. Such interventions may offer a feasible and scalable approach to sexual health promotion among young people. Further studies incorporating control groups and longer follow-up periods are required to determine knowledge retention and behavioural impact.

Keywords: Sexual health, Health education, Adolescent, Young adult, Pre-University, Orientation
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Citations: IeJSME 2026 Vol 20 (1): 43-54