Welcome to the 2022 ATRA Virtual Conference!
The virtual conference is uniquely different from the face-to-face conference being held in Birmingham AL September 10 - 13, 2022. Attendees registered for the face-to-face conference also receive access to the virtual conference. Individuals interested in the virtual conference may register separately for just the virtual conference. To register, go to https://www.atra-online.com/page/ACON2022
Overcoming the “Polarized Mind”: Utilizing Viewpoint Diversity to Build Bridges with Colleagues and Patients
Session Description/Research Abstract
The United States is becoming increasingly divided, leading to an influx of tribalism, intolerance, and polarization. This manifests as a disconnect that is felt both within academia and patient care settings. As health care professionals, we are called to teach students and model to them how to care for all patients, regardless of their backgrounds and beliefs.
Several factors are believed to contribute to this “disconnect”, including a lack of viewpoint diversity. Heterodox Academy defines viewpoint diversity as “the state of a community or group in which members approach questions or problems from multiple perspectives” and it “enables colleges and universities to realize their twin goals of producing the best research and providing the best education.”
This session will describe the current polarized climate and how students, faculty, and practitioners alike can overcome this “us vs. them” mentality and foster viewpoint diversity to mitigate polarization. Highlighting data-informed best practices, this session will explore the importance of viewpoint diversity and how its pursuit can enhance inclusion, open-inquiry, and patient care.
Learning Outcomes
1. Describe the current landscape from polarization and viewpoint diversity perspectives
2. Discuss the “polarized mind” and how lack of viewpoint diversity manifests in fear, echo chambers, and disconnect
3. Implement strategies to foster viewpoint diversity in higher education and practice
Population/Setting:
Higher Education
Physical Rehabilitation and Medicine
Research
Other
CEUs:
0.1
Primary Presenter
Jonathan Thigpen, Samford University
Credentials
PharmD
Biographical Information
Dr. Jonathan Thigpen is the assistant dean for curricular innovation and professional development at Samford University's McWhorter School of Pharmacy. He obtained his Pharm.D. from Samford University before completing two postdoctoral fellowships; University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine (pharmacoepidemiology/pharmacogenetics) and Duquesne University School of Pharmacy (academia/research). From there, he entered academia as full-time faculty at Notre Dame of Maryland University School of Pharmacy.
After six years in Baltimore, and having cemented his passion for academia, his journey took him back to Samford where he serves in his current role. His primary responsibilities are to oversee the implementation of a new and innovative curriculum while empowering faculty and students to grow professionally.
He is extensively involved in the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP), having held various leadership roles among its standing and ad hoc committees, councils, sections, and special interest groups. His current service and research interests focus on viewpoint diversity and open inquiry in higher education, starting Heterodox Academy's Health Professions Education Community and serving as its inaugural Community Moderator.
Head Shot
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