Cultural Humility Addressing Racism and Microaggression (CHARM)

Abstract

Introduction
 Racism, discrimination and microaggressions experienced by underrepresented nursing students contribute to a loss of confidence, and feelings of sadness and anger.1,2,3 These experiences affect the students’ academic performance, and personal wellness. 1,2,3 There is a need for innovative and accessible resources that provide instruction and promote critical thinking regarding racism and microaggressions in the classroom and clinical setting. The aim of the CHARM project is to provide a toolkit for nursing students regarding how to respond safely and effectively to microaggressions.
 Method
 The use of eLearning and simulation games have successfully been used to provide education and problem-solving skills in healthcare when interacting with various groups of individuals. A group of seven nursing students are collaborating with faculty to develop an eLearning Toolkit and virtual simulation games (VSGs) focused on addressing racism and microaggressions.
 Results
 To date, the outline of a website that includes access to a pre-learning module and 5 VSGs have been designed. The pre-learning module includes definitions and education regarding the 6-step method to responding to microaggressions.4,5 The VSGs immerse the players into various scenarios where they are provided with options on how to respond in clinical situations and the potential consequences of the response they choose.
 
 Discussion
 This project is a work in progress, and it is hoped that this project will support nursing students, so that they feel less alone. In addition, we hope to improve their confidence and provide resources in managing encounters where racism and microaggressions occur.