Using the virtual world of Second Life to teach cultural competence for health science professional students.

Cultural competency;Second Life;LGBT;Virtual reality;Education

Ashley Mack, 1986-

University:University of Louisville

Department:Anatomical Sciences and Neurobiology

关键词: Cultural competency;    Second Life;    LGBT;    Virtual reality;    Education;   

Others  :  https://ir.library.louisville.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1874&context=etd

美国|英语

来源: The Universite of Louisville's Institutional Repository

【 摘 要 】

Purpose: This study provides preliminary evidence that the use of technology, particularly the virtual world of Second Life™, can break down barriers by enhancing student interest in and satisfaction with the content. Methods: A pre-conference survey was administered to students attending the University of Louisville Cultural Competency Workshop series; six questions examined students' attitudes toward the LGBT community. Two health care scenarios were presented to students attending the LGBT sessions, either the traditional workshop setting, or a virtual Second Life™ session. A post-session survey was administered to students in the LGBT breakout sessions. Results: Using Second Life™ to present the LGBT health care scenarios significantly enhanced students’ self reported sensitivity and compassion for LGBT patients and awareness of disparate health problems in the LGBT population. Conclusion: Second Life is an effective tool to enhance student interest and mastery of the sensitive nature of LGBT disparities in the healthcare industry.