Hyder A. Teaching systems science to public health professionals.
Public Health 2020;
181:119-121. [PMID:
32007781 DOI:
10.1016/j.puhe.2019.12.013]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Revised: 12/17/2019] [Accepted: 12/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES
Systems thinking aims to understand the overall behavior of a system by examining the interdependencies of parts of the system. The objective of this study is to increase awareness of systems thinking and systems modeling in public health research and practice.
STUDY DESIGN
A short course was offered to public health professionals using a combination of teaching modalities: didactic lectures, group discussions, hands-on programming, and experiential learning.
METHODS
Course participants completed surveys and provided feedback on the effectiveness of the course. A description of participant backgrounds, survey responses, and feedback were summarized.
RESULTS
Overall, participants offered quantitative and qualitative feedback suggesting that course content was useful and effective for incorporating systems thinking/modeling in their public health practice.
CONCLUSIONS
Systems thinking can be taught through formal modes of instruction to public health workers, but more research and case studies are needed to identify who should be taught and when and how such instruction should take place given competing priorities of public health workers.
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