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A Model Rural Health Orientation Course Using Interdisciplinary, Community Oriented, Inquiry Based Strategies
Kenneth E. Olive1, Bruce Goodrow, Sheila Virgin
1Department of Internal Medicine, Community Partnerships Program, Office of Rural and Community Health, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614, USA.
Advances in Health Sciences Education : Theory and Practice
|October 19, 2002
Summary
This rural health curriculum effectively introduced students to community health needs and interdisciplinary teamwork. Community members were highly satisfied with their involvement in developing the program.
Area of Science:
- Community Health
- Medical Education
- Public Health
Background:
- A new interdisciplinary curriculum, Community Partnerships in Health Education, was developed.
- This curriculum utilizes community-oriented and inquiry-based strategies for health education.
- It targets medical, nursing, and public health students.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce students to rural communities, their healthcare needs, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
- To pilot an intensive one-week introductory course within the new curriculum.
- To assess the effectiveness of community-based activities in achieving course objectives.
Main Methods:
- An elective curriculum was offered to diverse health professional students.
- The course involved intensive community-based activities over one week.
- Student and community member feedback was collected and analyzed.
Main Results:
- Student evaluations showed strong agreement that course objectives were met.
- Qualitative analysis highlighted team-building as a key influential aspect for students.
- Community members expressed high satisfaction with their input and the inclusion of local resources.
Conclusions:
- Nontraditional, community-based methodologies are effective for rural health education.
- Interdisciplinary teamwork and community engagement are crucial components for success.
- The curriculum successfully prepared students for primary healthcare in underserved areas.