Students were trained in culturally-sensitive data collection, the Catawba Indian
Nation culture and history, tribal government, and how to conduct biopsychosocial
interviews. Winthrop students said the experience enhanced their understanding of issues related
to aging, challenged their initial preconceptions about the Native American community
and improved their self-confidence in their ability to conduct home visits.
ROCK HILL, SOUTH CAROLINA — Fifteen Winthrop University students partnered with the
Catawba Indian Nation this summer to conduct a needs assessment evaluation with its
senior citizens.
During an in-depth training provided by the Department of Social Work and Catawba Senior Center, students learned about culturally-sensitive data collection, the Catawba Indian
Nation culture and history, tribal government, and how to conduct biopsychosocial
interviews. Students also had the opportunity to tour the Catawba Cultural Center,
according to Allison Gibson, an assistant professor in social work.
She said that the student researchers went door-to-door across the reservation and
surrounding York County community over a three-week period in May and June to interview
senior tribal members about their health, well-being and social engagement to better
understand their needs. Nearly 400 Catawba Indian Nation seniors were contacted during this period.
While classroom learning on cultural competence can prepare students for working with
populations outside of their own cultural identity, Gibson said that research has
demonstrated that immersion experiences can lead to enhanced professional learning.
"Student learning outcomes improve significantly when students are given the chance
to interact with diverse populations in field settings," she said. "Further, such
research activities have shown data collection projects enhance students' interpersonal
skills."
During exit interviews, the Winthrop students said the experience enhanced their understanding
of issues related to aging, furthered their understanding of research and program
evaluation, improved their self-confidence in their ability to conduct home visits
and facilitate biopsychosocial interviews. It also challenged some of their initial
preconceptions about the Native American community prior to data collection, Gibson
said.
Student involvement in the project was possible due to funding support from the Catawba Senior Center, Winthrop University's Research Council and Winthrop University's Graduate School.
For more information, contact Judy Longshaw, news and media services manager, at 803/323-2404 or e-mail her at longshawj@winthrop.edu.
