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- Title
International Service Learning.
- Authors
Tabor, Rebecca G; Carter, Daniel M; Kovar, Mary; Ramsing, Ron
- Abstract
Students in health care professions, including dental hygiene, have been involved in service learning long before it became a new trend in education. However, due to rigorous class and clinical schedules, study abroad was a more difficult aspiration to obtain. Utilizing the University's Winter Term, faculty within the College of Health and Human Services at Western Kentucky University collaborated among departments (Allied Health, Nursing, Public Health and Recreation) and developed an International Service Learning Program that accomplishes both. During Winter Term, students can take an International Health and Service Learning course and have the opportunity to travel to the country of Belize, CA. While staying in or near small villages, students are able to provide a variety of healthcare services, including preventive dental care. Students not only have the opportunity to see how healthcare is provided in other countries; they also gain interdisciplinary healthcare experience as they rotate through providing care with physicians, nurses, dentists, dental hygienists and pharmacists. In addition to providing care, students are involved in the assessment and planning for future programs. Students are able to gain first hand experience in cultural diversity, treating patients in both Mayan and Creole villages. While in Belize, students are immersed in the culture of the country and have opportunities to participate in community events and visit various regions of the country. Reflection is an important part of the program. Students keep daily journals and meet nightly to discuss the experiences from each day. Upon their return the United States, the students provide presentations to campus and community groups. Program participants have noted that the experience greatly exceeds their initial expectations, increases their self-confidence and inspires them to be more involved in their own communities. Initial funding for this project was obtained through Western Kentucky University.
- Publication
Journal of Dental Hygiene, 2008, Vol 82, Issue 5, p49
- ISSN
1043-254X
- Publication type
Academic Journal