Nursing Students' Enhanced Cultural Competence After Study Abroad: A Mixed-Methods Study.

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Global Health
• Cultural Competence

Background:

• Cultural competence is vital in undergraduate nursing education.
• Optimal methods for developing cultural competence remain debated.
• Short-term study abroad shows promise but lacks theory-driven, mixed-methods research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of an immersive study abroad program on baccalaureate nursing (BSN) students' cultural competence.
• To utilize a mixed-methods, theory-driven design to assess changes in cultural competence.

Main Methods:

• A convergent mixed-methods study design was employed.
• Quantitative data analyzed pre- and post-program cultural competence scores.
• Reflective journal entries underwent deductive content analysis.

Main Results:

• A statistically significant increase in cultural competence was observed post-program.
• Key themes included embracing diversity, transformative journeys, emotional engagement, cross-cultural experiences, and appreciation.
• Qualitative data enriched the understanding of quantitative findings.

Conclusions:

• Theory-designed study abroad effectively enhances BSN students' cultural competence.
• The study highlights the program's positive influence on individual theoretical constructs of cultural competence.
• Immersive experiences are crucial for developing culturally competent nursing professionals.