375Activity 2: Culture and Helpers (Part I: Discussion, Think-Pair-
Share Dyads)
Pairs of students discuss the following questions: (1) What is culture? (2) What is
genetic counseling? (3) How does culture impact genetic counseling? (4) Pirzadeh
et al. ( 2007 ) identified four values that are important to genetic counselors: benevo-
lence (concern for others), self-direction (independence), achievement (personal
success), and universalism (protecting the welfare of all). Which of these values are
important to you? Are there other values that are important to you? (5) How might
these values affect your work with patients? (6).
Estimated time: 30 min.
Activity 3: Culture and Helpers (Part II: Discussion, Think-
Pair-Share Dyads)
Pairs of students discuss the following questions: (1) What kinds of differences in
culture do I perceive in others? (2) How do I respond to the differences that I see in
others? (3) What biases am I aware that I have?
Estimated time: 20 min.
Process: Activities 1 Through 3
Why do you think it is important to discuss motivations for being a counselor in
relation to cultural differences? What did you learn from these exercises? What are
your feelings about examining your cultural values, your motivations, and cultural
differences?
Estimated time: 10–15 min.
Activity 4: Cultural Identities (Think-Pair Share Dyads)
Students work in pairs to complete this activity. The students should take turns
interviewing each other for 10 min about their respective cultural identities.
Questions can include the following:
- Where were you born? Where did you grow up?
- What do you consider to be your cultural/ethnic heritage?
- What reactions or curiosities do you have about your own cultural
programming? - What are your current cultural affiliations (e.g., religious, ethnic alliances)?
- Does any aspect of your cultural identity come in conflict with other aspects?
Process
- Students should make notes as they complete their interviews.
13.7 Class Activities