Saje Davis-Risen (Pacific University); Brandy Pestka (Pacific University); Bjorn Bergstrom (Pacific University)
Issue to be addressed: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of an online diversity course on physician assistant student bias and cultural competency.Method: Pre/Post survey scales were used to asses for change in cultural attitudes and competency of 54 PA students: Healthcare Professionals-Student Version (IAPCC-SV). Demographic, personality and critical thinking scales were utilized to evaluate group level factors that may moderate group outcomes. To evaluate this further the following assessments were used: NEO Five-Factor Inventory (NEO-FFI-3), Watson-Glaser II (WG-II), Curiosity Scale (CEI-II), Ethnocentrism Scale, Dogmatism Scale (DOG Scale), and self-report on qualitative questions and course outcome evaluations.Outcomes: The average score on the CEI-ii was Moderately Curious. Variables evaluated for moderation did not appear to impact course outcomes. Qualitative responses indicated a decreased self-perception of being culturally agile, while also endorsing greater intentionality for cultural agility. Objective assessment results indicate that there was an aggregate improvement from “Culturally Aware” (CA) to “Culturally Competent” (CC) as measured on the IAPCC-SV.
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