Effective medical professionals: translating foreign language needs in online intercultural communication training

In a globalised world, linguistic and intercultural challenges are part of professional life [1]. When different cultural and/or language backgrounds are at play, misunderstandings between medical professionals and their patients and between medical professionals and their colleagues will adversely affect patient care and treatment, and have professional consequences for the health caretakers [2,3]. Healthcare professionals' communication skills are an important component of their professional identity, and are linked to perceptions of their competence as medical professionals [4]. It is therefore important to understand how they manage these conversations, as well as the basis for their evaluations of these interactions. In order to fill this gap, this presentation will report on several needs analyses (2007-2016), questionnaires with mobile doctors (n= 134) and nurses (n= 400) and interviews with their colleagues and heads (n= 54) as well as usability studies of the ensuing materials. From the needs analyses it emerged that language-specific (rather than general communication) skills training is most needed and should address communication about culturally-grounded (e.g., health and religious) beliefs. Qualitative analyses of self-reported descriptions of workplace incidents revealed two primary loci of linguistic problems: issues with vocabulary (i.e., doctors cannot find the word they need) and issues with comprehension (i.e., doctors are unable to understand what interlocutor is saying). By tracking the professionals' learning routes and routines guidelines for an effective e-learning approach were formulated. These insights have been used to inform the development of multifaceted e-learning materials for intercultural communication training, with the ultimate goal of improving the effectiveness of communication and care. In sum, the Communication for Professionals (ComfroPro) e-materials embed intercultural strategies and tips in written and audio-recorded scenarios as well as real life video cases. By providing multiple learning routes and social network support ComforPro tries to enhance the professional's communication skills and defuse a number of challenges, including engaging in small talk, facing nonverbal communication, and observing cultural norms and expectations.

Publication year:2016

Keywords:P1 Proceeding

BOF-keylabel:yes

Authors from:Higher Education

Accessibility:Closed