Building Cultural Sensitivity and Interprofessional Collaboration Through a Study Abroad Experience

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Health Professions Education
• Cultural Competency

Background:

• Study abroad (SA) experiences offer potential benefits for health professions students.
• These experiences may enhance cultural sensitivity towards diverse patient populations.
• SA programs can facilitate the integration of interprofessional education (IPE).

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of study abroad experiences on cultural sensitivity and IPE among health professions students.
• To explore the transformative effects of SA on students' perspectives and professional development.

Main Methods:

• Two groups of nursing and pharmacy students participated in a 2-year SA elective.
• Students traveled to China and India as part of the elective.
• Data collection likely involved pre- and post-travel assessments and reflective journaling.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements were observed in students' knowledge, awareness, and skills post-travel.
• Student reflections highlighted transformative changes in their views on travel, cultures, and collaboration.
• Participants reported shifts in their perspectives on interprofessional collaboration and self-awareness.

Conclusions:

• Study abroad programs represent a novel approach to fostering interprofessional education.
• SA experiences are effective in enhancing the acquisition of cultural competency skills.
• These programs contribute to the holistic development of future health professionals.