The top ten list: lessons learned from teaching a study abroad course.

In response to the need for culturally competent care, faculty can instill in students the desire to become culturally competent practitioners by providing the opportunity to participate in a short-term study abroad immersion experience. While this strategy is not considered cutting-edge or revolutionary, changing global dynamics warrant rethinking this curricular option. Nurse faculty conducted two short-term study abroad courses in Croatia. Students explored health care and nursing education in this Eastern European country and participated in a service-learning project. Based on their experiences, the authors offer five dos and five don'ts for planning and implementing a successful study abroad course.