Module Three

ORIENTATION FOR SHORT-TERM MEDICAL MISSIONS

Cultural and Logistical Preparation for Your Trip

In this third module you will be taken through some exercises to help you culturally prepare for taking part in a short-term medical mission trip. You'll get to question your motivations and ability to hear and listen, rather than problem solve. Please note that this module is the longest in this orientation. Cultural competence is the most important part of preparation – even if you've traveled to this location before or have gone on lots of mission trips – because it is at the heart of why we do this work. We are in solidarity, we are providing access, we are partners with the community being served. As included in the Guiding Principles, Humility – with us all having something to learn – is an imperative in this work.

Please view the video and additional resources offered after.

Please note: This module includes questions for reflection. As each is provided, we recommend you pause the module to consider your response.

CLICK ON THE VIDEO TO COMPLETE MODULE THREE.

That was the main video for Module Three. If you are interested in reviewing either of the articles cited in the video, access them at:

Geert Hofstede and Cultural-Dimensions Theory
Geert Hofstede is a Dutch social psychologist and anthropologist who has studied interactions between cultures. He has received numerous awards for his intercultural research all over the world. One of his most notable accomplishments is the establishment of the cultural dimensions theory, which provides a systematic framework for assessing the differences between nations and cultures.

The links that follow will provide basic insights in to the six dimensions of national culture and an opportunity to compare countries by typing in country names.
https://www.hofstede-insights.com/models/national-culture/
https://www.hofstede-insights.com/product/compare-countries/

Additional reading:

Proceed to Module Three-A (for those going to or interested in learning more about Hospital St. Francis de Sales in Port-au-Prince, Haiti)

Module Four is intended for your use after returning from your short-term mission trip. We recommend that you view it within days of your return.

 

Proceed to Module Four