Tracing Sexuality Education in Chinese Science Textbooks: A CSE-Informed Critical Discourse Analysis

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Thursday 9:45 am
  In Roundtable Session: Cultural Issues in International Curricular Framing and Materials

Abstract

This study critically examines how sexuality education is constructed in Zhejiang, China’ s middle school science textbooks through a Critical Discourse Analysis informed by UNESCO’ s Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) framework. Findings reveal a fragmented, biomedical-centered discourse that prioritizes physiological facts while largely omitting core CSE principles like consent, LGBTQ+ issues, and gender equality. The analysis shows that lexical choices, passive syntax, and gendered narratives reinforce conservative cultural norms and suppress student agency. The research highlights a significant gap between current practices and holistic, rights-based educational standards, advocating for culturally responsive curricular reforms to better support adolescents' sexual health and well-being.

Authors

• Meng Sun, East China Normal University

• Junhao Zhao, East China Normal University

• Sihan Xiao, East China Normal University