Partnering with a sister city organization for an international service-learning experience

Abstract

A partnership was established between Indiana University School of Nursing in Indianapolis and the Bloomington, Indiana-Posoltega, Nicaragua Sister City International organization to provide an international service-learning course in nursing. The course evolved over 4 years from an independent study for a single student to an elective course taken by 10 students. Student-learning activities included the following: developing relationships with community residents, providing prenatal classes, supporting nursing scholarships, and participating as interdisciplinary, multicultural team members. Partnering with our local Sister City International organization provided a rich opportunity for nursing students to learn about and participate with Nicaraguan and international health care workers in meeting population health needs in stable and refugee environments.