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Transformative learning: empathy and multicultural awareness in podiatric medical education
Craig M Elliott1, Robert J Toomey, Brooke A Goodman
1California School of Podiatric Medicine at Samuel Merritt University, Oakland, CA, USA.
Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association
|January 11, 2012
Summary
Short-term medical missions significantly enhance podiatric medical students' empathy and multicultural awareness. These experiences positively impact their training, fostering better understanding of diverse patient needs and improving overall physician skills.
Area of Science:
- Podiatric Medicine
- Medical Education
- Global Health
Background:
- Short-term medical missions are prevalent in medical education.
- Limited research exists on their impact on transformative learning, specifically empathy and multicultural awareness.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of short-term medical missions on podiatric medical students' learning.
- To assess the impact on empathy and multicultural awareness.
Main Methods:
- Eight podiatric medical students surveyed electronically about their mission experiences (2008-2009).
- Qualitative survey questions were coded, themed, and triangulated with quantitative responses.
Main Results:
- 75% of students found the mission experience significantly positive for training.
- Students reported increased awareness of multicultural/diversity needs and enhanced empathy.
- All students believed the experience would make them better podiatric physicians.
Conclusions:
- Short-term medical missions can be pivotal for transformative learning in podiatric medical education.
- These missions may enhance empathy and multicultural awareness in students.
- Further research is recommended to explore curriculum and global health implications.
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