Social and Health Care Management Student in three countries compare ideal and reality in care services

Abstract

Explore existence of a common basis for management education in the Czech Republic, Finland, and Portugal. The research task is: a) To explore the differences between the perceptions of students regarding the ideal and real-world situation in care (values vs. practices) that characterize the SH sector Methodology: Exploratory qualitative research In-depth focus group interviews: social and/or health care students (29) in three countries (Czech Republic, Finland, Portugal) Conclusions: The common basis for education are common underlying ideals stemming from two cultures - culture of management and culture of care; Socio-cultural differences were found in general trust, attitude towards rules, regulations and authority, and managing time and future; International focus group was a fruitful source of reflection for students’ experiences in care practice; The discrepancy what is learned in management education and actual practice should be clearly addressed in future education. CareMan project can be seen an example of a strategy for supporting critical thinking and reflective learning in intercultural management issues.