A strength is an element of the curriculum that closely meets all of the HECAT criteria and is typically scored a “3” or “4” in the analysis review because it allows opportunities for practice and reinforcement. For example, the curriculum thoroughly and effectively teaches students the process of goal setting.

A weakness is an element of the curriculum that does not closely match the HECAT criteria and typically receives a score of “2” or less. For example, the teacher talks about the skill of goal setting, but students don’t have opportunities to practice the skill.

An omission is an element of the curriculum that is missing based on the HECAT criteria. For example, opportunities for students to practice encouraging their peers to postpone intercourse are not included.

An extra is an element of the curriculum that is additional to what is outlined in the HECAT criteria. For example, the curriculum includes detailed information on the different drugs an HIV-infected individual might be prescribed.

If scores for a locally developed curriculum are consistently low (“0” or “1”), consider eliminating the current curriculum and developing a new one.

Some considerations to keep in mind when ranking curricula include:

• Each criteria and score stands on its own. Do not add the scores to calculate a total score or average.
• Review Chapter 4 scores to determine if accuracy, acceptability, feasibility, or affordability scores and comments should affect the ranking of a curriculum.
• Review the curriculum fundamentals (Chapter 5) and determine which curriculum scores are highest in most of these fundamentals, especially in the areas that your team believes are most important.

To facilitate an informed public review, the coordinator should:

• Provide a written summary of each curriculum under consideration.
• Provide a summary of the review process.
• Provide a written summary of HECAT scores and the strengths and weaknesses of each curriculum.
• Provide a copy of each curriculum under consideration.
• Solicit public review and comments.