A-CHARM for Implicit and Racial Bias
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores how effectively the A-CHARM program helps nursing students and faculty understand and address implicit and racial biases. Participants will engage with educational resources and virtual simulations to learn about race, racism, and discrimination. The goal is to determine if these tools can enhance cultural humility and awareness. Ideal participants are nursing students or faculty at a university in Southern Ontario who can use virtual simulations on electronic devices and understand English. As an unphased study, this trial allows participants to contribute to significant educational advancements in cultural awareness and bias reduction.
Do I need to stop my current medications to join the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
What prior data suggests that the A-CHARM resources are safe and effective?
Previous studies have shown that A-CHARM, an educational tool designed to address hidden and racial biases, is safe for use in teaching settings. The program includes learning and virtual role-playing exercises that focus on understanding and respecting different cultures. It is important to note that this is not a drug or medical device, so there are no physical side effects like those found in medication trials.
Participants in similar programs have reported no safety issues. The main goal is to learn about and understand racial and hidden biases, which presents a very low risk of harm. This type of educational program is generally well-received, as it involves interacting with information and simulations rather than physical treatments.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the A-CHARM treatment because it tackles implicit and racial bias in a unique way. Unlike traditional methods that might involve workshops or lectures, A-CHARM uses a combination of education and virtual simulation to create a more interactive and immersive learning experience. This innovative approach could potentially lead to more effective and lasting changes in behavior and attitudes by engaging participants in realistic scenarios that challenge their biases in real-time.
What evidence suggests that A-CHARM is effective for addressing implicit and racial bias?
Research has shown that the A-CHARM program, which participants in this trial will experience, can enhance awareness and respect for different cultures. In past studies, participants gained a better understanding and sensitivity to cultural diversity after using A-CHARM's learning materials. The program includes virtual simulations, such as 'Nik's Story', which help participants practice addressing racism effectively. However, it's important to note that while these simulations can be powerful, some studies suggest that training to reduce hidden biases has mixed results in changing long-term behavior. Overall, early findings indicate that A-CHARM shows promise in improving cultural awareness and reducing bias.16789
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals interested in understanding and navigating racial and hidden biases. Participants will be assessed on cultural humility and awareness before and after the intervention. There are no specific inclusion or exclusion criteria provided, suggesting it may be open to a broad adult population.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Education Intervention
Participants complete an education session on race, racism, and discrimination, including the Six-Step Approach, ERASE framework, and Microaggression Triangle model.
Simulation Experience
Participants engage in virtual simulation experiences (SEs) and complete pre- and post-simulation assessments on cultural humility and awareness.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in cultural humility and awareness after the simulation experience.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- A-CHARM
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Queen's University
Lead Sponsor