'Checkmating HIV&AIDS': Using chess to break the silence in the classroom
Esau, O.
Sahara J Journal of Social Aspects of Hiv/Aids Research Alliance 9 Suppl. 1: S28-S36
2012
ISSN/ISBN: 1729-0376 PMID: 23234377 DOI: 10.1080/17290376.2012.744899Document Number: 572645
In this article, I give an account of my 'Checkmating HIV&AIDS' action research project, which was an attempt to break the 'culture of silence' concerning HIV&AIDS and sex and sexuality in my classroom. In this project, I focused specifically on one code of sport, namely chess, and I point out and discuss the potential of using chess as an educational tool in addressing HIV&AIDS. It was found that learners enjoy playing chess and that it can be used in the Life Orientation classroom to promote HIV&AIDS awareness. This type of alternative awareness is relevant as learners in most schools were becoming fatigued by HIV&AIDS information overload. The project portrays the role of the teacher as a researcher and critical change agent in an HIV&AIDS-challenged society.