The effect of a public health service-learning/study abroad program in Swaziland on the cultural awareness of university undergraduate students
Abstract
The development of cultural sensitivity is becoming more important with globalization [1-3]. Immersing students into another country’s culture is the most effective means of increasing cultural awareness [2-5]. This is important for the health professional in particular such that a keen sense of cross-cultural sensitivity may prevent the cultivation of a culturally unacceptable health intervention. However, the current body of literature lacks evidence for or against a program developed to heighten Swaziland cultural awareness in health promotion students. Therefore, the question remained whether an eight-week preparatory course and a two-week service-learning program is sufficient in evoking the development of cultural awareness and cultural sensitivity in future health professionals. The present study was designed to address these issues. There were 13 participants who were all Purdue University undergraduate students. Data was collected and analyzed using the mixed method approach from surveys, written papers, and daily journals that were administered strategically throughout an 8-week preparatory course followed by a two-week service learning trip in Mbabane, Swaziland. There were twelve reemerging themes: Perceptions about Africa derived from Television, Desire to learn about Culture/To Remove Stereotypes, Expectation of Community ties in Africa, Appreciation of Preparedness to Travel Abroad, Understanding of importance of Cultural Competence, Removing Preconceived Ideas and Generalizations of African People, Development/Use of New Knowledge, Appreciation of Other Cultures, Lack of government Support, Realization of Privileges/Values, Desire to help other People/Change lives/Make a Difference, and Sense of Accomplishment. The public health service-learning/study abroad program immersed the students into the Swazi culture and was an effective means of increasing cross-cultural awareness. Even if the students eventually choose a health career in the United States, they could potentially utilize their cross-cultural development gained from the service-learning/study abroad experience in a national setting.
Degree
M.P.H.
Advisors
Hyner, Purdue University.
Subject Area
Public health
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