Ivan Andres Castillo
University West,Sweden
Abstract Title: Promoting Norm-Critical Pedagogy in Healthcare Education: A Web-Based Training Initiative for Educators
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Background: Healthcare is not always delivered on equal terms; social norms related to gender, sexuality, age, and other identity dimensions shape assumptions about individuals, influencing whether their needs are acknowledged and care is delivered equitably. Methods: To address these disparities, we developed an English-language, web-based training course aimed at educators in healthcare fields. With a work-integrated approach, the course offers foundational knowledge about how social norms impact the provision of care and how health educators with support of norm-criticism can further their own teaching practices to promote equitable care. The structure of the course is divided into three thematic modules: a) an immersive exploration of societal norms using observational method, b) understanding othering of marginalized groups and the educator’s own positionality by recorded lectures and self-directed exercises, and c) a digital creative examination of the course content. Each module fosters educators’ self-reflection on their own norm-based assumptions and stereotypes. Results: Although the course was only recently launched, the initial uptake by international educators has been modest yet promising. Participant feedback indicates increased awareness and preparedness to incorporate norm-critical perspectives in their teaching practices. Conclusions: This course exemplifies an accessible and scalable pedagogical tool for integrating norm-critical approaches into healthcare education.
