Intercultural sensitivity among nursing educators: Comparison between Japan and China

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Intercultural Communication
• Global Health

Background:

• Globalization necessitates intercultural sensitivity in nursing education for diverse patient populations.
• Limited research exists on factors influencing intercultural sensitivity among nursing educators globally, particularly in Japan and China.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare factors associated with intercultural sensitivity in nursing educators across Japan and China.
• To identify specific elements that enhance intercultural sensitivity in these distinct educational contexts.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional, international comparative study design was employed.
• Online surveys were administered to nursing educators in Japan (n=1022) and China (n=214) between October and December 2023.
• Linear regression analysis examined associations between various factors and intercultural sensitivity, measured by the Intercultural Sensitivity Scale.

Main Results:

• Chinese nursing educators demonstrated significantly higher intercultural sensitivity than Japanese educators after adjusting for confounders.
• Studying, researching, or training abroad positively influenced intercultural sensitivity in both countries.
• Factors like cross-cultural friendships and non-native language ability were key for Japanese educators, while frequent non-native language use and foreign-experienced family members were significant for Chinese educators.

Conclusions:

• Intercultural sensitivity levels differ between Chinese and Japanese nursing educators, with Chinese educators scoring higher.
• Promoting international study experiences is crucial for both groups.
• Targeted interventions, including fostering cross-cultural interactions and improving non-native language skills, are recommended to enhance intercultural sensitivity in both Japanese and Chinese nursing educators.