Intercultural Learning through Technology Program
The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation
Mario G. Maldonado, M.D., M.Sc.
Henry R. Luce Professor in Brain, Mind, and Medicine: Cross-Cultural perspectives
Pitzer, Claremont McKenna, Harvey Mudd Colleges
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In conjunction with Universidad San Francisco de
Quito, Ecuador, this course will study the essentials of the dynamic
interplay of cultural, social, biological, and psychological factors in the
experience of pain.Topic covered include:(1) the anatomy, physiology, and
pharmacology of pain; (2) the psychological factors influencing the pain
experience; (3) factors underlying the variability of pain across cultures
and social groups; and (4) a review of pain variability and the clinical
implications in diagnosis and treatments. About 20% of the content of the course would be
integrated into the psychology course in Ecuador.Most of the academic work
required for the completion of the course will be done in teams of six
students, three in the U.S. and three in Ecuador.The courses would share the
following components:Weekly discussions on the status of the class in both countries,
a website created by students, joint bi-weekly critiques produced in teams
through email and chat.In addition, American students will prepare a video on
pain (people in pain) as well as Ecuadorian students.They will exchange
videotapes and notice cultural similarities and differences in the expression
of pain.Also, reflection sessions (chat and net-meeting) will be organized at
the end of the semester in order to express/share good and bad experiences,
and formulate recommendations on intercultural communication and learning.The
issue of technological disparities will be included. |