Experiential Learning Program - 2023 Fall

Purpose

The purpose of the Experiential Learning Program is to strengthen the Public Health workforce pipeline by preparing high school students to pursue careers in Public Health after post-secondary school graduation.

Goals

• Research Writing
• Interview Workshop
• Academic Poster – Public Health Campaign
• College Essay
• Public Health Campaign
• ACT Prep Workshop

Instructors

Graduate Assistants

Optional dual enrollment course

PUBH 2181: Population health & society
This course offers an overview of the study of population health and will introduce students to the major social variables—social class, race, gender, poverty, income distribution, social networks/support, community cohesion, the work and neighborhood environment—that affect population health. The course covers the theoretical underpinnings of each construct (e.g. “race” as a social category) and examines the research linking each to population health status. Students will identify and critique population-based approaches to address health disparities and bring about social justice in health. Students will learn through lectures, small group exercises, written assignments, and an independent project that examines a contemporary population health issue.

Student outputs

• Research Paper
  In our research paper project, students delved into the complex issues of HIV, Substance Use Disorder, Chronic Disease, and Violence Injury and Prevention. They produced comprehensive 5–7 page research papers that explored these topics in depth, demonstrating their understanding of the complexities and nuances of public health. Through their research, students gained valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities in addressing these pressing health concerns, and their papers reflected their ability to think critically and solve problems creatively. The project culminated in a body of work that showcased the students' knowledge and passion for improving public health outcomes.
• A Public Health Campaign
  In our public health campaign project, students created and launched comprehensive campaigns to raise awareness and provide resources about their research topics. These campaigns aimed to encourage individuals to seek medical attention for themselves or others and implement necessary changes in multiple communities. As part of the project, students designed and developed all aspects of the campaign branding, including slogans, logos, public service announcements, informative videos, social media posts, and more. By taking a holistic approach to public health education and outreach, these campaigns made a tangible impact in promoting health and wellness in various communities.
• An Academic Research Poster
  In the academic research poster project, students created and presented academic research poster presentations that visually represented the general overview, data, and most relevant findings of their research topics. These posters provided a clear and concise summary of their research, making it easy for others to understand and engage with their work. By creating and presenting these posters, students gained experience in effectively communicating their research to a wider audience and showcased their findings in a visually engaging way.
• 3 College Essay Papers and Interview Workshop
  At our College Essay and Interview Workshop, the students researched their top college entry requirements, including ACT scores and admission essay questions. They drafted and completed three essays: a Personal Narrative essay, an Academic, Athletics, and Leadership Essay, and a full College Essay that combined the two previous essays while answering the college essay prompt of their top college. Students participated in peer reviews of each other's papers and took part in four mock college interviews: one in pairs, one in front of the class, one on film as if in a virtual interview, and one with the University of Memphis college faculty or staff. This comprehensive workshop provided students with the tools and experience they needed to excel in their college applications.
• Multiple ACT practice tests AND the official ACT (Dec 8, 2023)
  In the ACT preparation workshop, students became familiar with the test format and structure. They developed effective test-taking strategies and time management techniques and enhanced their knowledge in key subject areas: English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science. Personalized feedback and guidance helped students identify and address their weaknesses. Through practice exercises and simulations, students boosted their confidence and reduced test anxiety. The workshop facilitated an interactive and collaborative learning environment, providing students with a comprehensive preparation for the ACT.
• Optional dual enrollment course: PUBH 2181: Population health & society
  Students defined population health and explained the difference between individual- and population-based strategies for improving health. They recognized the advantages and limitations of various population-based approaches, including education, marketing, engineering, policy, and law. Students understood how health and health behaviors were influenced by social and geographic location, media, and economy. They identified principal determinants of health and disease, including factors contributing to health inequalities across different groups. Additionally, students explained how social and cultural factors shaped contemporary understandings and experiences of health, illness, and death and dying in the US.
  • Weekly Homework
    In our PUBH 2181 course, students were assigned weekly homework that included a significant portion of the coursework. To ensure students' success, virtual homework sessions were held every Thursday evening, where students could work through questions and challenges together. These sessions were mandatory, as they provided a vital opportunity for students to receive support and guidance from their peers and instructors. Instructors were always available to answer any questions or concerns via email, creating a supportive learning environment that helped students successfully complete the course and earn college credit.

Closing program

On Thursday, November 30, 2023, from 6pm - 7pm at the University of Memphis - FedEx Institute of Technology, we held the Closing Program, where students showcased their research and public health campaigns to parents, faculty, health department staff, and CDC grant members. This event marked the culmination of their hard work and dedication to public health initiatives. The students presented their findings and campaigns, highlighting their understanding of public health concepts and their ability to apply them to real-world issues. The event provided a platform for students to share their knowledge and inspire others to take action towards better health outcomes.