Module 1

An active discussion is the key to an interesting and engaging online course. Discussion in this course is designed to simulate a classroom discussion. As others join in the discussion, you should read what has already been posted and add substantively to the discussion.

The modules in this course are one week. Time goes quickly, so post early! Get in the habit of checking the discussions as often as you can to see what others have posted and to respond. Waiting until the last day to post means you miss out on learning from your peers, and they miss out on learning from you.

Please think about each of the following questions and respond not only to the question but also to what others are saying. The first question is opinion-based so that you can begin the discussion immediately without having completed all your readings.

As you progress, you will need to meaningfully apply the readings. You will need to attribute your sources; however, APA formatting is only required for non-course assigned readings or videos.

Part I – The first part of this week’s discussion is based on your own thoughts and experiences and does not require you to complete any of the learning materials prior to joining the conversation.

• How would you answer someone you just met if they asked you to describe your culture to them?

Part II – In preparation for the second part of this week’s discussion you will need to apply your readings as you watch the required videos on Cultural Humility (Links to an external site.) [Video, 7:12 mins] and The Danger of a Single Story (Links to an external site.) [Video, 19:16 mins]. In one of your assigned videos, Chimamanda Adichie shares her personal experience with other people assuming they knew her and something about her culture. She eloquently described how upsetting this was for her. In this first class discussion we will talk about the danger of a single story and how this relates to the concept of cultural humility.

• Having completed your readings, what do you see as the biggest distinguishing factor(s) between cultural humility and cultural competence? What specific behaviors would convey cultural humility in a health provider? As you discuss your various responses, consider the behaviors you are selecting. Could there be times when they may not convey cultural humility to certain people/groups? How so?
• Why is a “single story” a dangerous assumption for health professionals to make and what can we do to avoid that trap? Please share examples from the video, as well as any examples from your other readings/video, to support your discussion.
• Think about your own experiences with health providers, or perhaps someone else. What is something unique about your story or cultural identity that others who don’t know you might miss or assume otherwise?

Consult the Discussion Posting Guide for information about writing your discussion posts. It is recommended that you write your post in a document first. Check your work and correct any spelling or grammatical errors. When you are ready to make your initial post, click on “Reply.” Then copy/paste the text into the message field, and click “Post Reply.”

To respond to a peer, click “Reply” beneath her or his post and continue as with an initial post.

This discussion will be graded using a rubric. Please review this rubric prior to beginning the discussion. You can view the rubric on the Course Rubrics page within the Start Here module. All discussions combined are worth 35% of your final course grade.