Virtual International Learning: Exploring Healthcare Similarities and Differences

International learning experiences provide nursing students opportunity to expand knowledge of global health systems. Students participated in a weeklong program with peers from Austria, Greece, and Germany. The purpose of the international learning experience to compare and contrast cancer care and nursing practices offered in these countries. Students learned from expert lecturers from the United States, Switzerland, Austria, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands on nurses’ roles in cancer care, new advances in cancer knowledge, analyzing rituals/regular practices in nursing care, and using individual experience to inform and improve service provision. Students discussed cultural, social, and economic factors that impact cancer care and nursing rituals (practices). Groups were comprised of students with different experiences, knowledge, values, and skill sets to develop a case study and plan of action for a client. On the final day, students presented their case study and care plan during a student conference. Through discussion in diverse groups, students learned how healthcare systems compare. Findings included the United States healthcare system being the most complex compared to Austria’s publicly funded system and Germany’s solidarity community system. Through reflection, students identified future practices such as researching community resources for patients being discharged, the necessary focus on psychosocial aspects of care, implementation of collaborative skills, and communication through language barriers. Students learned to adjust workflow and interactions to ensure success for everyone in the group. The use of a virtual platform allowed accessible learning during a pandemic. Students grew personally and professionally through collaboration, increased cultural competence with communication, and expanded understanding of global healthcare delivery systems while gaining insight of shared values in nursing