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Growth and Challenges in Developing Cross-Cultural Competence and Leadership in Physical Therapy Students via Virtual
Hsinyi Tanya Liu1, Allison Schenkel, Jaci Brahmer
1Dep. of Physical Therapy, University of South Dakota, 414 E. Clark St., Vermillion, SD 57069, USA. hsinyi.tanya.liu@usd.edu.
Journal of Allied Health
|June 5, 2026
Summary
Student physical therapists (SPTs) need strong cross-cultural communication skills. Virtual education improved SPTs' confidence in communication and leadership, despite challenges like language barriers.
Area of Science:
- Physical Therapy Education
- Cross-Cultural Communication
- Healthcare Professional Development
Background:
- A significant portion of the U.S. population speaks a non-English language at home.
- This necessitates enhanced cross-cultural communication skills among healthcare professionals, including student physical therapists (SPTs).
- Developing cultural competence is crucial for effective patient care in diverse populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore barriers and facilitators to cross-cultural interaction among SPTs.
- To evaluate the impact of virtual educational sessions on SPTs' cultural competence and leadership development.
- To examine the relationship between cross-cultural competence and leadership efficacy in SPTs.
Main Methods:
- A mixed-method study involving 23 SPTs from Taiwan and the U.S.
- Initial survey to assess cross-cultural competence, leadership, and prior experiences.
- A four-session virtual intervention with educational content and guided discussions, followed by reflections and questionnaires.
Main Results:
- Significant positive correlations were found between cross-cultural competence and leadership efficacy.
- Participants reported increased comfort and confidence in cross-cultural communication post-intervention.
- Key barriers identified included language differences, unfamiliarity with topics, time zone challenges, and fear of errors.
Conclusions:
- Virtual cross-cultural interactions can positively influence SPTs' communication confidence.
- The study suggests that virtual educational interventions can enhance leadership skills in SPTs.
- Addressing barriers is essential for optimizing cross-cultural training in physical therapy education.
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