Evaluating the development of cultural competence in undergraduate health students during two short-term international study abroad programs in Samoa and Tonga.

Australia is experiencing increased cultural diversity and with it, marked health disparities between the general population and members of these cultural groups. To reduce these disparities, health professionals must have a sound understanding of cultural differences. Yet, there is limited research on ways to develop cultural competence in students from the health professions. The aim of this research was to explore the extent to which a short-term international study abroad program in Samoa increased cultural competence amongst a cohort of Human Nutrition students. This research was underpinned by social learning theory. Data was derived from several sources: a student focus group, in-depth interviews with Samoan stakeholders (Cancer Care and Kidney Foundation) and the academic leading the program. A deductive process was used to code the data using five constructs of cultural competence: awareness of values, beliefs, practices of other cultures; knowledge of different cultures; skill in conducting culturally competent exchanges; engaging with people of diverse backgrounds; having a desire to achieve cultural competence.