Culturally responsive teaching materials enhance learning in Indigenous spirometry training

Abstract

Introduction: The Indigenous health worker spirometry training program (IHWSTP) is a culturally responsive two-day program aimed at teaching health workers to perform quality spirometry. Aim: To develop and promote culturally responsive teaching materials to enhance IHW learning of key spirometry concepts. Methods: 1) Critically examine course content to determine key concepts, the basis of further learning. 2) Develop teaching materials to convey these key concepts based on the “8 Aboriginal ways of learning” ie land-linked and visual learning processes, story sharing, hands-on or reflective techniques, use of metaphors, symbols & learning maps etc. 3) Incorporate culturally responsive learning materials into course & guide participants to create their own and 4) Analyse post-training invited feedback (Nvivo® Stats package). Results: 1) Key concepts identified were FEV1, FVC, FEV1/FVC%, acceptability, repeatability assessment, lung disease, reversibility testing, interpretation & quality assurance. 2) Resources were developed to convey key concepts using land-link photos, agricultural piping, balloons, milk containers, visual algorithms & videos 3) Participants create their own manual during training. 4) 49%(n = 181) gave invited feedback. Main theme identified was course framework with sub-themes on course delivery, content, materials, relevance, practical learning & cultural responsiveness. Comments included “Excellent course fantastic resources” “Very creative to make the content stimulating” “Visual aids were good” “visual content extremely helpful so easy to understand” “Loved practical activities”, “presented a mathematical learning session” that was easy to understand” “Loved the visual & practical learning. “Very visual & hands on”. Conclusion: Culturally responsive teaching materials enhance the IHWSTP learning experience. Similar teaching aids may also support learning in other cultural groups and health roles.L6350677432021-05-28 <br />