Innovative Game-Based Teaching Methods for Promoting Nursing Students’ Cultural Competence and Attitudes Toward Refugees: An Explanatory Sequential Mixed Study

Abstract

Introduction: Nursing cultural competence is crucial for enhancing the quality of care for refugees. While innovative game-based teaching methods have been used to foster in a wide range of clinical competences, little is known about its use on refugees’ care. This study aims to evaluate the effect of these methods on nursing students’ cultural competence and attitudes toward refugees. Methodology: An explanatory sequential mixed design was conducted from March to May 2023. Results: One-hundred forty-one nursing students participated. There were no statistically significant differences in total Outgroup Threat Perception Scale and Cultural Competence Assessment Scale scores between the experimental and control groups, pre- or post-intervention. However, students reported increased awareness and empathy for refugee issues. Discussion: The study showed that innovative game-based teaching methods effectively increased nursing students’ awareness of health-related issues faced by refugees. It recommends incorporating transcultural nursing courses into curricula and professional training, with updated content on migration and refugee issues.