Learning Objective #1: Discuss the development and implementation of a Spanish for nurses program

Learning Objective #2: Discuss the successes and challenges in integrating nursing education, second language learning, and Web-based technology in a nurse practitioner program

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The Spanish for Nurses program was conceived and implemented as part of a Health Resources and Services Administration funded advanced education grant to increase the number of healthcare providers from ethnic/minority populations and the number of culturally competent providers. A major component of the grant was to develop and implement a program for faculty and students to develop their Spanish listening and speaking skills to facilitate communication between Spanish speaking patients and their providers.

The program utilized a framework of technology and pedagogical praxis in addressing language and cultural competence for healthcare providers. Web-based technologies were used to develop and create listening and speaking skills and independent learning environments for L2 learners. For example, to enhance history taking and physical examination skill acquisition, a series of on-line audio and video files were created from an advanced health assessment course, a requirement for all practitioner graduate students. A “Contemporary Issues in Language Education” (CILE) website is used as a tool for facilitating and enhancing language, culture and technology competence inside and outside the classroom.

During the presentation, the authors will review some of the current issues, challenges and progress in the field of second language learning and discuss approaches to expanding the evaluation of second language learning beyond the context of general proficiency. Specifics about the overall program, the tools used in the development of the on-line and in-class materials, scenarios developed for learning, the participation of faculty, staff, and students in the project, and the integration of content into the FNP and midwifery programs will be provided.

Cultural populations bring diverse traditions that enrich health and the human experience. New and innovative methods are needed more than ever to increase the number of culturally competent health care professionals.