Development Outcomes of a Pregnancy Prevention Model for Adolescent Students in Educational Opportunity Expansion Schools through Networking Participation in Rayong Province

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to develop and evaluate a model for preventing pregnancy among primary school female students at educational opportunity expansion schools through the participation of network partners. Method: This operatory action research was conducted in three phases: 1) phenomenon exploration and planning 2) action and reflection, and 3) evaluation. In phases 1–2, the respondents consisted of 25 participants, including representatives from educational institutions, public health services, local administrative organizations, and the provincial office of social development and human security. Phase 3 involved 78 female students in grades 7–9. The data collection tools included 1) a pregnancy prevention program, 2) a health literacy questionnaire, 3) in-depth interviews, and 4) focus group discussions. Quantitative data analysis using descriptive statistics, paired t-test and t-test, and qualitative data analysis using content analysis. Results: Phase 1 revealed that the obstacles to preventing teenage pregnancy include unfriendly services, stigmatizing social norms, lack of sexual education and life skills, limited opportunities for continuing education, and insufficient collaboration among stakeholders. In addition, the program was developed using strategies based on the health literacy framework, comprising knowledge training, media literacy and communication skills, self‑health management, and access to services through media. Phase 2 revealed that network partners carried out their assigned roles while refining the accuracy and appropriateness of the program, ensuring its relevance and feasibility for practical application. Phase 3 showed that the mean scores of health literacy differed significantly at the .05 level both within and between groups. After receiving the program, the experimental group demonstrated higher average scores than the control group. Conclusion: The development of a pregnancy prevention model for adolescents through the participation of network partners effectively enhanced the health literacy of female students.