Comparing Learning Outcomes of International and Local Community Partnerships for Undergraduate Nursing Students

Abstract

International health care experiences offer undergraduate nursing students the opportunity for significant personal and professional growth. During a month-long travel course to Cameroon, West Africa, students improved their skills in clinical assessment, data management, intercultural communication, and collaboration based on an empowerment model of international partnership. Although it is not possible for all students to participate in providing health care in another country, it is possible to design a local course in which students are able to meet similar outcomes in a community health experience in partnership with an immigrant and refugee center.

Revising a conceptual model of partnership and sustainability in global health

“…Benefits to students, individual practitioners, and organizations from HRCs have been documented. Anecdotal evidence also suggests that professional skills of practitioners from HRCs may be enhanced (Jones, Knights, Sinclair, & Baraitser, 2013), while students from these same countries, still developing in their professional role, often report a transformational experience that changes their lives and promotes cross-cultural understanding and appreciation (Mkandawire-Valhmu & Doering, 2012;Wros & Archer, 2010).…”

Designing Student Citizenship: Internationalised Education in Transformative Disciplines

“…While global interactions are a vital part of creating a society of educated and engaged global citizens, current approaches often focus on 'exposure' at the expense of immersion (Green et al 2011;Wros & Archer 2010). The terminology used is one that implies a contamination through touch but denies the need for in depth and well-informed interactions.…”

Community Health Nursing Practice Education: Preparing the Next Generation

“…With increasing globalization, the learning these opportunities provide, and the benefit to less fortunate countries, may be significant. For example, students are able to gain global experience by working with an increasing number of refugees in developed countries (D'Lugoff & McCarter, 2005;Lenz & Warner, 2011;Wros & Archer, 2010). Limitless opportunities exist within local communities, community partnerships between non-health care agencies, social outreach agencies, schools, veterans' residences, and so on.…”

“…International practice, while costly and logistically complex, can make a significant difference in the lives of the people served and the students (Aarts et al, 2010;Ailinger, Malloy, & Sacasa, 2009;Wros & Archer, 2010). With increasing globalization, the learning these opportunities provide, and the benefit to less fortunate countries, may be significant.…”