An innovative use of the arts in an undergraduate curriculum to challenge thinking around diversity and professionalism

Hammond, Anna; Baxter, Ian; Pearson, Libby

Abstract

Tutor experience/student feedback had highlighted the challenges in working with students in developing humanistic approaches to care and constructive professional behaviours. ‘Professionalism’ / Diversity as curriculum areas may be met with suspicion by students. Learning activities are easily dismissed as unnecessary with inherent difficulties in ‘teaching’ in this area. Facilitating learning of important, sensitive information is not well served by traditional didactic approaches, but more creative approaches to learning are easily rejected.
We adopted a transformative approach (Mezirow 1990) challenging established views, without patronising. This used a one-act drama ‘The Purple List’, a moving, emotional and involving performance delivered by 'Sam' enacting the impact of his partner Derek's dementia as it progresses over a two year period. We developed a workshop to supplement the play, in consultation with the author/actor, to further highlight important aspects of professionalism, diversity and humanistic care for Year 3 HYMS students.
We will provide feedback to delegates regarding our experiences of using this performance, in HYMS and in different academic organisations and departments.

Citation

Hammond, A., Baxter, I., & Pearson, L. (2020, March). An innovative use of the arts in an undergraduate curriculum to challenge thinking around diversity and professionalism. Poster presented at University of York Annual Teaching and Learning Conference

• Presentation Conference Type: Poster
• Conference Name: University of York Annual Teaching and Learning Conference
• Start Date: Mar 13, 2020
• End Date: Mar 13, 2020
• Deposit Date: Dec 18, 2023
• Publicly Available Date: Jan 29, 2024
• Public URL: https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/4491300