Clemson University sent eight public health students and six nursing students to spend two weeks in Northern Ireland in a cross-cultural learning project. Prior to their departure for Northern Ireland, students were enrolled in a special topics course on cultural sensitivity, and were required to conduct preliminary research on health issues and conditions in Northern Ireland as part of their preparation for the trip. This ensured the students would be fully aware of the health issues and political situation facing residents of Northern Ireland. Upon arrival in Northern Ireland, each student was assigned to work with public health practitioners in hospital and community settings. By working with the "health visitors," public health students were able to observe and participate in health services delivery within the context of a national health service. Students were also able to discuss similarities and differences between the fee-for-service system found in the United States and the National Health Service system used in Northern Ireland. Students kept daily journals during their activities, met with faculty mentors for debriefing sessions twice a week, and are developing presentations based on their experiences. Being immersed in the Irish culture and talking with local students from Queens University in Belfast, the public health students gathered first-hand insight into the political, social, and religious climate. The cross-cultural project required students to examine their pre-conceptions about the U.S. system while confronting alternative approaches to the provision of health services.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, the participant will: 1. Recognize the differences between two national health systems. 2. Understand the importance of cultural sensitivity when conducting research in international health settings. 3. Appreciate the value of cross-cultural learning experiences in preparing students for their chosen areas of study in public health.
Keywords: International Health, Students
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.