Fostering Inclusive Practice in Speech-Language Pathology Undergraduates: Service-Learning Focused on Cultural Diversity
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This study explores the impact of a community-engaged service-learning project designed to foster undergraduate students’ cultural humility whilst supporting young children’s literacy and understanding of diversity. Over the course of 8 weeks, undergraduate students majoring in communication sciences and disorders delivered reading instruction enriched with cultural diversity themes to children ages 6–8. Pre- and post- program surveys revealed growth in students’ awareness of cultural diversity, personal development and clinical insight. Simultaneously, assessments of participating children demonstrated significant improvements in their ability to define diversity, apply inclusive thinking and summarise stories. The findings highlight the reciprocal benefits of service- learning – promoting culturally responsive practice and a commitment to equity and social change among future healthcare professionals whilst fostering inclusive awareness in early childhood learners.
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