260.720.81
Communications Primer for the Public Health Sciences

Location
Internet
Term
1st Term
Department
Molecular Microbiology and Immunology
Credit(s)
1
Academic Year
2024 - 2025
Instruction Method
Asynchronous Online with Some Synchronous Online
Auditors Allowed
No
Available to Undergraduate
No
Grading Restriction
Letter Grade or Pass/Fail
Course Instructor(s)
Brian Klaas
Contact Name
Brian Klaas
Frequency Schedule
Every Year
Description
Acquaints students with the basics of effective oral and written communications in the form of brief exercises. Focuses on clarity and simplicity in presentation practice across disciplines and cultures to emphasize central messages. Introduces students to writing succinctly for advocacy using "compelling writers strategies" for opinion pieces and short speeches.
Learning Objectives
Upon successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
  1. Construct visual presentations around simple, clear narratives
  2. Explain the rationale for important public health topics across disciplines and to the public
  3. Formulate clear and concise oral and written messages in the form of motivational presentations and opinion pieces
Methods of Assessment
This course is evaluated as follows:
  • 20% Quizzes
  • 60% Presentation(s)
  • 20% Written Assignment(s)
Enrollment Restriction
MPH and MSPH
Instructor Consent
No consent required
Special Comments

Students interested in more extensive communications training are advised to enroll in 260.710.81 Communications Practice for Health Science Professionals. This course is offered through the R3 Center for Innovation in Science Education (R3ISE).