Twelve tips for promoting learning during presentations in cross cultural settings

Abstract

Educators frequently learn together in cross cultural settings such as at international conferences. Cultural differences should influence how educational programs are designed and delivered to effectively support learning; cultural sensitivity and the competence to deal with such differences are important skills for health professions educators. Teaching without this approach may lead to lost learning opportunities. This article provides twelve tips for educators to consider when planning and delivering formal presentations (e.g. lectures and workshops) in cross cultural settings. The tips were constructed based on a literature review, the authors’ experience, and interviews with international educators who frequently deliver and receive education in cross cultural settings. The tips are divided into three phases: (1) preparation for the session to optimize learners’ experience (2) interaction when delivering the session and (3) reflection on the experience.

Disclosure statement

The authors report no conflicts of interests. The authors alone are responsible for all of the content of the article.

Notes on contributors

Takuya Saiki, MD MPHE PhD is an associate professor of the Medical Education Development Center, Gifu University.

Farhan Bhanji, MD MSc(Ed) FRCPC is a professor of Center for Medical Education and Department of Pediatrics at McGill University. He is the Associate Director of Assessment and a CanMEDS Clinician Educator at the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.

Linda Snell, MD MHPE FRCPC MACP is a professor of Medicine and core faculty member at the Center for Medical Education at McGill University, and senior Clinician Educator at the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.