An Interprofessional Exploration of Culture—Speed-Dating Style Deb Belcher, PT, DPT Heidi McGohan, MEd, OTR/L, OTA/retired

What sort of cultural activities have you used in your classroom?

History of Rehab Services’ Culture Day Identified Needs: Improve Health Science students’ knowledge and understanding of cultures common to the Miami Valley and general Ohio region. Gain a better understanding of the experiences that both patients and health care professionals of various cultures encounter when navigating the healthcare system. Develop more collaborative experiences between the PTA and OTA Programs.

Culture Day Format The Guests: Healthcare professionals of various cultures Placed in small groups at round tables (approximately 10) More intimate gathering leads to greater interaction and deeper discussion

Culture Day Format The Questions: Written with the students’ assistance (same # of questions as round tables) Examples: Based on your cultural bias, what do think of the term “privileged”? What are some common stereotypes or misconceptions related to your culture? Describe some challenges that patients of your culture might face when accessing or receiving healthcare. What are your views on “political correctness” as it relates to your culture?

Culture Day Format Guest Preparation: Defining a date Identifying a diverse group of healthcare workers to invite Sending a save-the-date Providing the guests with: Information on the format for the day A list of questions that students will ask Deciding on &purchasing gifts for participants in a timely fashion

Culture Day Format Student Preparation: Students randomly assigned to “Question Groups” (same # as there are round tables). Each Question Group is assigned 1 of the prepared questions. Each Question Group asks the same question at each round table of guests. Each Group is free to ask other questions once they receive answers to their original question, if time allows. Students are given a note sheet with the names of the guests at each table and are encouraged to take notes.

Culture Day Format Morning of Event: Set up signage Make nametags Provide small breakfast reception 30 minutes prior to the event (in an area adjacent to the event) Escort guests to their tables Guests with similar culture(s) are seated together

Culture Day Format Outline of Activities: Introductory video (sets the mood). General introduction of guests (name / discipline). Students also given a list of guests names and their assigned tables on the note sheet. Students rotate from round table to round table. Guests introduce themselves and describe which culture(s) they feel they represent. 10-12 minutes allowed at each round table. 10 minute breaks every hour. Concludes in 3 hours with Thank Yous and small gifts for the guests.

Culture Day Format Putting it all Together: The Jigsaw / Lunch and Learn Students are reorganized into “Jigsaw” Groups. At least 1 student representing each of the Question Groups is in each Jigsaw Group. Each Jigsaw group has a facilitator (instructor). Students eat lunch while they informally discuss the morning’s activities. Students discuss each round table group and share information that their group received / learned. Students also are encouraged to express personal thoughts and to discuss how the information they learned can be used to improve their future practices as a clinician.

The Jigsaw Question Group 1 Student 1A Student 1B Student 1C Student 1D Jigsaw Group A Student 1A Student 2A Student 3A Student 4A Jigsaw Group C Student 1C Student 2C Student 3C Student 4C Question Group 2 Student 2A Student 2B Student 2C Student 2D Question Group 3 Student 3A Student 3B Student 3C Student 3D Jigsaw Group B Student 1B Student 2B Student 3B Student 4B Jigsaw Group D Student 1D Student 2D Student 3D Student 4D Question Group 4 Student 4A Student 4B Student 4C Student 4D

Let’s Have a Mini Culture Day!

Debrief How Did It Go?

Lessons Learned Time commitment. A “committee” is ideal. Start early (space, getting guest commitment, acquiring gifts,…). Rest breaks, nourishment, and hydration… Quiet area. Safe learning environment allows “taboo” topics to be discussed. Everyone can gain more cultural understanding. Bring your tissues. Some cultures are still not comfortable speaking. There always room to grow. It’s worth the time and effort!

Outcomes / What Participants Had to Say The Guests: Felt more comfortable speaking in small groups. Felt comfortable with the questions being asked. “It’s nice to see people that are ready to listen, even if they disagree.” “It appeared the students felt comfortable asking questions that they wouldn’t normally feel comfortable asking in other situations.” “It helps to open closed minds.” “Not enough time; felt rushed.” “I wish I could have been at every table.”

Outcomes / What Participants Had to Say The Students: My favorite part was “breaking down the barrier of fear that exists when you are unfamiliar with something.” I liked “being able to ask open questions in a safe space.” My favorite part was “hearing about the struggles different cultures face in the healthcare system.” I enjoyed “interacting with guests in a relaxed environment.” I liked “having OTA and PTA together.” There was not enough time. There were no snacks. I didn’t like the “guilt” part.

Outcomes / What Participants Had to Say Sinclair Facebook Video--Rehab Services Culture Day https://www.facebook.com/sinclaircommunitycollege/videos/10155658734864702/

Take-Aways How Can You Adapt this Model to Create a Deep, Meaningful Cultural Experience in a Short Timeframe in Your Classroom?