Core competencies for executing culturally sensitive supervision and training

Abstract

The term cultural competence is defined as the presence of both cultural awareness and sensitivity whereby awareness refers to a state of cognizance of, insight into, and knowledge about diversity issues, and cultural sensitivity refers to a state of attunement to, emotional resonance with, and meaningful responsiveness to the needs and feelings of others. Supervisors and trainers model cultural sensitivity when they demonstrate the ability to respectfully hold and embrace other's differences while staying connected and engaged. Demonstrating cultural sensitivity is central to the work of supervisors and trainers. It is not a quality that is easily acquired. Instead, cultural sensitivity is developed to varying degrees over a period of time depending on one's life experiences and commitment to diversity Enhancing cultural sensitivity requires us to expand our thinking with a greater appreciation and focus for what people do. Supervision and training should be a deliberate educational process with teaching and learning strategies that are proactive, purposeful, and intentional.