Table 1
Suggestions for creating a better learning environment for ethnic minority students
|
Subtheme Addressed |
Suggestion |
|---|---|
|
Othering/not belonging |
Create an environment in the learning environment where ethnic minority students can feel that they have a place. For example providing (small) support groups for students with different ethnic backgrounds to share experiences and support each other |
|
Othering/not belonging |
Create a ‘low threshold’ system for reporting discrimination and insults if desired |
|
Lack of role models |
Ensure better representation of role models, for example specialists, with an ethnic minority background in teaching, tutoring and mentoring roles across the educational continuum |
|
Communication difficulties |
Provide clarity about what is expected of students by considering ethnic minority students’ cultural backgrounds, and guiding students (using role models) regarding the expectations such as assertiveness in a sensitive manner |
|
– Communication difficulties – Coping mechanisms/creating awareness |
Educate staff and students about the culture of medicine, and how to communicate about ethnic differences to create cultural awareness and competence |
|
– Working hard – Influence of hierarchy – Othering/not belonging – Coping mechanisms/creating awareness |
Discuss ethnic and cultural differences in the learning environment |