The workshop takes a developmental approach to increasing skills in recognising and adapting to ‘cultural’ differences: the largely unconscious logic frameworks for communication and other behaviour that humans use in our interactions. Does this person prefer linear or circular communication? Are they acting from a more universal approach to rules or a more situational one? Differences in these (and more) frameworks lead to frustration, miscommunication and inaction: patients who don’t comply, colleagues who don’t cooperate, displays of anger and frustration that disrupt workplaces where there are significant differences, and more.
Prior to the session, all participants will complete a 15-minute training needs analysis [the Intercultural Development Inventory], the best empirical measure of ‘intercultural sensitivity’ available. Developed by Professors Bennett and Hammer, the Inventory has subsequently been assessed by leading academics in interculturalism, who have consistently found it to be a valid and reliable measure of intercultural sensitivity without age, gender, education or national biases. The session will then be designed specifically for session participants’ developmental needs.
Participants will leave with a greater understanding of their own and others’ frameworks, and skills in being able to adapt to others’ expectations/needs to provide for truly patient-centred care (and trainee-centric training) in the ED.
Educational Activities: 8 hours
Target Audience: Members of the Inclusion Committee, other Committee chairs and members, all FACEMs and Trainees who are interested in expanding their intercultural communication skills for working with patients, colleagues, mentees, trainees, etc. who differ from themselves.
