Teaching and learning needs of culturally diverse post-R.N. students

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Cultural Diversity in Higher Education

Background:

• Canadian nursing schools historically attract predominantly white, middle-class females.
• Culturally diverse students encounter significant obstacles in nursing programs.
• Existing literature highlights various challenges faced by these students.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and synthesize the difficulties experienced by culturally diverse students in Canadian nursing programs.
• To provide a foundation for developing supportive strategies for underrepresented nursing students.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on student experiences in nursing education.
• Analysis of identified barriers including learning styles, language, communication, and social support.

Main Results:

• Culturally diverse students often prefer visual learning styles.
• Language aptitude and proficiency in English pose significant challenges.
• Lack of culturally relevant role models and faculty understanding of diverse backgrounds are key issues.

Conclusions:

• Nursing education programs must address diverse learning styles and communication differences.
• Enhanced faculty training and support systems are crucial for retaining culturally diverse students.
• Creating inclusive environments is essential for equitable nursing education outcomes.