Doing It TV Show Raises Questions For Student Wellbeing
The Doing It TV show is a British educational documentary series (released in 2022) that explores how young people learn about sex, relationships, and identity across different cultural and school contexts; for educators, it offers valuable insights but requires careful unpacking due to its explicit content, diverse value frameworks, and differing pedagogical assumptions compared to faith-based education models.
What "Doing It" Covers and Why It Matters
The sex education documentary follows adolescents, teachers, and experts discussing consent, identity, pleasure, and digital behavior, presenting real classroom scenarios and personal testimonies. Produced by Channel 4, the series reflects a broader European trend toward comprehensive sexuality education (CSE), which UNESCO reported in 2021 is implemented in over 85 countries with measurable impact on reducing risky behaviors among youth.
The program's student-centered narratives emphasize openness and normalization of sensitive topics, often contrasting with more values-based approaches typical in Catholic and Marist institutions. For example, one episode documents a mixed-gender classroom debate on consent laws in the UK following legislative updates in 2015, offering concrete legal and social context.
Key Themes Educators Should Analyze Carefully
The curriculum themes presented in the series are relevant but require contextual adaptation, especially in Latin American and faith-based environments where moral formation is integral to learning outcomes.
- Consent and boundaries, framed through legal and interpersonal perspectives.
- Sexual identity and gender diversity, often presented as fluid and self-defined.
- Digital sexuality, including sexting and online exposure risks.
- Pleasure-based education, which can conflict with abstinence or values-led teaching.
- Peer influence and social media shaping adolescent behavior.
Comparing Pedagogical Approaches
The educational frameworks underlying "Doing It" differ significantly from Marist pedagogy, which integrates human dignity, spirituality, and community values into all aspects of formation. While the show prioritizes autonomy and personal choice, Marist education emphasizes discernment, responsibility, and ethical reflection.
| Dimension | Doing It TV Show | Marist Education Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Core Objective | Informed personal choice | Integral human development |
| Teaching Style | Open discussion, peer-led | Guided reflection, values-based |
| View on Sexuality | Individual expression | Relational and moral dimension |
| Role of Educator | Facilitator | Mentor and moral guide |
| Family Involvement | Limited emphasis | Central partnership |
Practical Guidance for School Leaders
The school leadership response to such media should balance openness to global trends with fidelity to institutional identity. Evidence from OECD education reviews shows that schools integrating external media critically-rather than adopting it wholesale-achieve stronger student engagement and ethical reasoning outcomes.
- Screen content in advance and identify segments aligned with curriculum goals.
- Frame discussions within the school's ethical and spiritual framework.
- Engage parents proactively, explaining objectives and safeguards.
- Train educators to facilitate sensitive conversations with clarity and respect.
- Evaluate student understanding through reflective and values-based assessments.
Risks and Opportunities in Classroom Use
The media integration strategy must consider both benefits and risks. A 2022 survey by the UK PSHE Association found that 68% of teachers saw improved student engagement when using real-life media, but 41% expressed concern about age-appropriateness and value misalignment.
The opportunity lies in using selected excerpts to foster critical thinking, while the risk emerges when content is presented without contextual guidance. For Marist educators, this distinction is essential to maintaining coherence between academic content and spiritual mission.
FAQ for Educators and Parents
Everything you need to know about Doing It Tv Show Raises Questions For Student Wellbeing
Is "Doing It" appropriate for school use?
The series can be appropriate in controlled settings for older students, provided educators carefully select excerpts and contextualize them within the school's values and developmental framework.
How does it differ from traditional sex education programs?
It emphasizes open dialogue, personal autonomy, and contemporary social issues more strongly than traditional programs, which often focus on biology and risk prevention.
Can it align with Catholic or Marist values?
Partial alignment is possible when educators frame discussions around dignity, responsibility, and relationships, but direct adoption without adaptation may conflict with core principles.
What age group is the show designed for?
The content is generally intended for mid-to-late adolescents (approximately ages 15-18), based on its thematic complexity and explicit discussions.
What is the main educational takeaway?
The key takeaway is the importance of structured, guided conversations about sexuality that combine factual knowledge with ethical reflection and community values.
