Abstract
Changes in population diversity, such as race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status, require healthcare professionals to be aware of cultural differences in patient populations. Compelling evidence has suggested the lack of cultural competence among healthcare professionals, which can lead to poor health outcomes. This qualitative, phenomenological study was carried out in two phases. In Phase I of this study, I investigated athletic training students’ perceptions and experiences regarding cultural competence following their participation in a short-term study abroad course by utilizing a pre- and post- IAPCC-SV survey to collect data. Also in Phase I, I collected qualitative data through field notes from focus group sessions, interviews, and journal reflections. The data were then analyzed to identify and understand which aspects of the short-term study abroad courses students found most valuable to their understanding of cultural competence. In Phase II of the study, I explored the long-term effects of short-term study abroad on the development of cultural competence in participants and how the experience continues to influence their delivery of health care. There was a significant increase from pre-survey total to post-survey total, indicating a transformative shift toward cultural competence. Furthermore, five themes emerged from the qualitative data: (a) patient-centered care; (b) expansion of cultural perspective; (c) peer collaboration and clinical encounters; (d) relationships; and (e) desire to develop cultural competence. Survey and qualitative data support the effectiveness and value in purposely positioning athletic training students within a clinical setting outside of the traditional collegiate athletic setting and with a population that is culturally different than their own as a strategy for developing cultural competence. With the results of this study, I provide evidence-based literature for athletic training educators seeking innovative ways to integrate cultural competence education into the curriculum through study abroad courses.