Tolerance formation in students of medical specialties learning the topic “HIV and AIDS” in foreign language classes
In the article, the author addresses the issue of professional tolerance development in medical students by the means of the "Foreign language" discipline. It is noted that due to the socionomic essence of doctor's profession, morality, ethics and tact of a specialist are the essential aspects in establishing correct trust-based relationships in the doctor-patient dyad. Herewith, tolerance, delicacy, attentiveness and empathy are professionally significant qualities of a doctor's personality, not only contributing to the establishment of effective interpersonal communication but also having a direct impact on the quality of medical care. The professional tolerance of a doctor is expressed in his/her impartiality and benevolence towards his/her patients, regardless of any external or internal factors; the regulatory function of professional tolerance determines individual psychological stability and the ability to cope with emotional overload. Thus, the development of professional tolerance in future doctors is an urgent task of education in medical universities. The author notes that the development of professional tolerance in medical students should be performed in combination with the prevention of stigmatization of patients based on the disorders by raising the level of awareness. The article presents a methodological example of studying the topic “HIV and AIDS” in the practical classes in a foreign (English) language. It is noted that special attention should be paid to the selection of the content of the authentic educational material, comprising both relevant lexical and grammatical, and educational information components. The following types of tasks are proposed to be used: awareness test “Fact or Myth”; discussion on misconceptions based on authentic sources; watching and working with video; reading the Guidelines for Discussing HIV Infection and the text on HIV-related stigma and discrimination by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; a reasoned essay reflecting the quote provided.