The Influence of Multiculturalism within Higher Education: Nursing
Dangis, Glenda Helen; Laoyan, Meriam (2018)
Dangis, Glenda Helen
Laoyan, Meriam
Yrkeshögskolan Arcada
2018
All rights reserved
Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-201805239766
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-201805239766
Tiivistelmä
Societies in our globalized world are becoming more diverse as the flow of people crossing international borders continues to increase. As a result, multiculturalism is in the spotlight and is receiving more attention across university campuses. The main purpose of this study is to find out in what way(s) multiculturalism influences the higher education environment. This study has three research questions, (i) What are the demographics regarding diversity in Finland? (ii) How do students in higher education learn in multicultural clusters? and (iii) In what ways can diversity and inclusion be supported within universities? Roy’s Adaptation Model has been utilized as a theoretical framework for this study. The research method used was a literature review with 20 articles from three key databases Academic Search Elite (EBSCO), Sage and Science direct. Inductive analysis was conducted using the Graneheim and Lundman qualitative content analysis in nursing research. Statistical data directly implies increasing diversity in Finland as the number of foreigners continues to climb with Estonians and Russians having the highest population of foreigners. The findings of the study shows that nursing students in multicultural clusters have had positive experiences from their peers and mentors, including the development of cultural awareness and building of social networks. However, negative experiences were also identified, specifically; discrimination, social isolation and the practice of segregation. Language difficulties and mentors’ limited knowledge were some of the distinguished learning obstacles among multicultural students. In this study findings show, in order to reap the benefits of diversity; it is important to create and foster an inclusive environment. Interracial interaction, teaching strategies, university’s genuine support of diversity and educators’ cultural competence are ways that foster engagement and support inclusion. In conclusion, nurturing multiculturalism at university can result in the empowerment of students leading to positive outcomes.