Experiential Learning Program - 2024 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.

Program Goals

PUBH 3120: Environmental and Climate Health

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the framework, methodologies, and applications of environmental health, as well as the public health impacts and adaptations related to climate change. The course is divided into two sections.

• The first section covers the framework of environmental health, methods for studying the associations between environmental exposure and health outcomes, and regional and local environmental health topics. These topics include air pollution, water quality, food safety, solid waste, radiation, and the development of healthy communities and buildings.
• The second section addresses the adverse health consequences of climate change, specific preventive measures, and policies and actions to mitigate climate change and promote public health. It also covers policies, laws, regulations, and standards related to climate change and environmental hazards. The course equips students with approaches to assess and control climate threats and environmental risks. Students will gain familiarity with these concepts through course materials, discussion sessions, paper reviews, case studies, and hands-on experience.

Program Objectives

• Describe the major physical, chemical, and biological agents in common environments.
• Understand and interpret the health effects of exposure to environmental agents.
• Assess the health consequences of environmental exposures using epidemiologic, toxicologic, and exposure assessment methodologies.
• Interpret causes and trends of climate change.
• Explain the major health impacts of climate change.
• Recommend regulatory, technological, and behavioral approaches to prevent and control environmental hazards and climate threats.

Global Model WHO Conference

• Students had the incredible opportunity to attend the first in-person Global Model WHO, jointly organized by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Federation of United Nations Associations (WFUNA) at the WHO Headquarters.
• The students traveled to Geneva to collaborate on innovative solutions to pressing global health issues and had the chance to interact with WHO experts.
• In their free time, attendees immersed themselves in the city’s rich history and vibrant culture, exploring major sights like the Palais des Nations, Geneva’s old town, and the Flower Clock. They also discovered hidden gems at the city’s markets and relaxed by the stunning Lake Geneva.

Student Outputs

• Completed the PUBH 3120: Environmental and Climate Health course.
• Attended the Global Model WHO Conference, gaining insights into global health challenges, collaborative problem-solving, and networking with WHO experts.

Program Session Dates/Times

 

Session	Dates and Times
ACT Prep Session Dates	August 13, 15, 20, 27, 29 September 3, 5, 10, 12
PUBH 3120 Virtual Session	August 26, 28 September 4, 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 30 October 2, 7, 9, 14, 16, 21, 23, 28, 30 November 4, 6, 11, 13, 18, 20, 25, 27 December 4, 6, 11, 13
WHO Conference Session Dates	Preparation Meetings - October 5th, 19th, and 26th Conference Dates - October 29th – November 1st

 

Weekly Homework

Weekly assigned homework was a consistent requirement, encompassing tasks from the PUBH dual enrollment course. Students were expected to participate in weekly virtual homework sessions to collaboratively address any questions. These sessions were mandatory to ensure that each student diligently worked towards completing all three dual enrollment courses to earn college credit.

In addition to the virtual sessions, various resources were available to support students, including access to online libraries, study guides, and tutoring services. Instructors were also available to answer any questions, and students were encouraged to contact them via call, text, or email.

 

Instructors

 

 

Graduate Assistants