Sociology: Population Health Research

Overview of research methods used to examine population health dynamics. Topics include measuring health outcomes such as life expectancy and morbidity and examining the impact of sociological variables such as race and gender on health using domestic and international data. Prerequisite: Three hours of Sociology.

Pre-reqs 3 hours of Sociology; minimum Soph standing PACE students by permission and override.

Population health simply refers to the health of a population. Our unique identities, how we act, what social position we belong to, where we live all influence our health and the health of our communities. The understanding of population health is becoming more important, especially for the rapid social and institutional changes influencing population health and wellbeing. Various data sources and methods are applied to not only measure and track population health but also uncover social aspects affecting health and behavior. In this course, we will learn from peer-reviewed research on population health and gain the skills to develop a literature review. In addition to an Intro and Final, the course is divided into three primary learning modules: 1) Population Health Research, 2) Data and Methods used in Population Health Research, and 3) the Techniques to Developing a Literature Review.

• Class Participation and Discussion (25%) is essential for success in this course. Students are expected to come to class ready to participate in discussions, complete quick writing exercises, collaborate in groups, and engage in other activities. In some instances, students will be asked to submit in-class assignments either at the end of class or through Brightspace. • Reflective writing assignments (30%) allow you to write on the topics of population health research in three different times in the semester. • Quizzes (in-class) (15%) will assess students' understanding and comprehension of the course materials and concepts. • Final Project (25%) allows you to develop a literature review for health research. First, you will choose a topic in population health. Collect peer-reviewed research articles on the topic. Review, synthesize, and write the literature review. Your work should incorporate key ideas, contrasting viewpoints, and the remaining gaps in the literature. Develop a set of testable hypotheses or research questions. The assignment should be 4-5 double-spaced pages. • PPT presentation (5%) to demonstrate your final project. Prepare a 7-10 slide deck based on the final project. Record your presentation and upload on Brightspace.