Impact of an International Service Learning Experience in India for DPT Students: Short- and Long-term Benefits

dc.contributor.authorCollins, Jennifer
dc.contributor.authorClark, Elizabeth
dc.contributor.authorPignataro, Rose
dc.date.accessioned2021-10-10T13:59:14Z
dc.date.available2021-10-10T13:59:14Z
dc.date.issued2019
dc.description.abstractPURPOSE: Awareness of global issues and cultural competence are essential for health professions students. Educational programs utilize International Service Learning (ISL) to address global issues and diverse cultures. This study describes short- and long-term benefits of ISL on Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students. PROCEDURES: The ISL included study of Ayurveda, clinical service, collaborative learning, and cultural activities. A mixed-methods design included the Cross Cultural Adaptability Index (CCAI) administered to 14 students pre- and post-ISL and qualitative analysis of reflective papers. Interviews of participants were completed 2 to 3 years later. FINDINGS: Overall CCAI scores showed a statistically significant difference of 0.001 (p < 0.01) pre and post ISL. Three subscales also showed a statistically significant difference (p < 0.01). Qualitative analysis of reflective papers revealed three categories of impact: environmental connectedness, personal growth, and professional growth. Interviews conducted years following the ISL indicate that participants attribute several aspects of their professional and personal way of being to the ISL, including the importance of whole person care. CONCLUSIONS: Studies have shown benefits to health professions students immediately following an ISL. This study demonstrates that benefits persist years later. The longterm impact strengthens the rationale for including ISL during professional education.en_US
dc.identifier.citationCollins, J., Clark, E., Chau, C., & Pignataro, R. (2019). Impact of an international service learning experience in India for DPT students: Short- and long-term benefits. Journal of Allied Health, 48(1), 22-30.en_US
dc.identifier.urihttp://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12521/185
dc.language.isoen_USen_US
dc.titleImpact of an International Service Learning Experience in India for DPT Students: Short- and Long-term Benefitsen_US
dc.typeArticleen_US

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