ERIC Number: EJ1307421
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2021
Pages: 17
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: EISSN-2162-6685
EISSN: N/A
Pre-Departure Training Is Essential for Preparing Healthcare Teams for Service-Learning to Resource-Limited Countries
Trotter, Suzanne Fox; Dunnivan-Mitchell, Sharon; Borman, Nicole; Kent, Aimee; Oliva, Brianna
Journal of Service-Learning in Higher Education, v12 p42-58 Win 2021
Introduction: Limited research exists on effective pre-departure training (PDT) for interprofessional healthcare disciplines participating in international service-learning (ISL), particularly to resource-limited settings. Method: A convenience sample of 21 physical and occupational therapy students and clinicians who participated in four 1-hour PDT sessions were included in this mixed-methods study. Training consisted of informative, reflective, and simulation experiences to enhance self-awareness, teambuilding, cultural knowledge, and in support of trip preparations. Training session debriefings were transcribed and coded. The Cross-Cultural Adaptability Inventory (CCAI™) was administered pre-training and post-experience. Results: Qualitative data showed emerging themes around collaboration, mentorship, empowerment, opportunity, preparedness, self-awareness, and confidence. Quantitative analysis of CCAI™ data revealed significant median differences between a) all participants' CCAI™ scores for perceptual acuity pre = 49.29 and post = 51.38 (p = 0.018); as well as b) students CCAI™ scores of perceptual acuity pre = 49.80, post = 51.46 (p = 0.040); and c) clinicians CCAI™ personal autonomy scores pre = 31.00 and post = 33.16 (p = 0.042). Discussion: Participants demonstrated improved ability to perceive the needs of this novel culturally novel community and respond appropriately to community members and across healthcare disciplines. Conclusion: Pre-departure training prepares healthcare providers for international service, enhances emotional intelligence, improves interprofessional collaboration, and promotes more continuously sustainable services.
Descriptors: College Students, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Service Learning, Training, Simulation, Cultural Awareness, Teamwork, Cooperative Learning, Mentors, Empowerment, Self Esteem, Study Abroad, Foreign Countries
University of Louisiana System. 1201 North Third Street Suite 7-300. Baton Rouge, LA 70802. Tel: 337-482-1015; Fax: 337-482-5374; e-mail: service@louisiana.edu; Web site: http://journals.sfu.ca/jslhe/index.php/jslhe
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Guatemala
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A