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Learning Objective 1: Identify key elements in developing a global health site for undergraduate nursing education.
Learning Objective 2: Determine the benefits related to international collaboration between schools of nursing desiring to develop a global education site and existing non-government organizations.
To address challenges faced by nurse educators in developing sustainable international sites for students to learn skills of cultural sensitivity and competenc; and to demonstrate the process and benefits of collaborating with a non-government organization to teach nursing students global health and human diversity in India.
Methods:
Program outcomes and objectives were established for an undergraduate global health nursing course. India was chosen as the international site to explore opportunities. An essential goal for site development included having a sustainable program even when students were not in country. This led to a desire to work with an existing NGO that was operating and sustainable. It was also important to locate an NGO that operated on principles of self-reliance rather than handouts. Research of various organizations led to a suitable match that provided a safe location, in addition to abundant healthcare and cultural opportunities for students.
Results:
The collaboration process between the nursing students and the functioning NGO was very successful. Both the NGO and the nursing student group benefitted from the arrangement. The NGO provided the location, housing, local transportation and existing healthcare sites. The nursing students provided the healthcare expertise and skills for immunizations, wound care and health care teaching. Students also interacted daily with children assisting them with developmentally appropriate activities and in learning the English language. They tutored in school assignments, taught playground games and taught appropriate social interactions.
Conclusion:
Nurse educators that are developing international programs for nursing students can benefit by collaborating with existing non-government organizations. Students benefitted by being able to step into a functioning organization and were able to begin using their skills immediately. The NGO was grateful for the volunteer work provided to help their organization. International collaboration with existing organizations is one way to enhance global nursing education.
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