Experiences on the journey toward cultural competence.

다국어 초록 (Multilingual Abstract)

This study explored the experience of white professionals and graduate students in the social work field who completed a model project, the Learning Circle Project, designed to increase understanding of American Indian people, culture, history, and worldview. The focus was on participants who had a life-changing or significant experience. This study explored how the learning circle, as well as other life events, influenced participants through a phenomenological method. A three-interview format was employed to systematically explore participants' experience and the sense they made of that experience.
Findings reflect both the personal processes described by participants and reflections on the group process and methods. Themes include the value of a process which centers on the learner, is experiential, and provides information through stories and narratives; the importance of trusting relationships, both within the group and with friends outside the group, in providing support during the learning process; the value of creating a space for majority culture people to discuss issues of oppression and privilege; the benefits of a long-term, in-depth process with other co-learners; and the value of providing significant opportunities for critical reflection. Findings indicate that this type of process can create significant transformational learning and can create a deeper understanding of, and commitment to, the elimination of racism and oppression in all forms, even when a single culture has been the focus of study.