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The Future of Teaching Epidemiology
Martha M Werler1, Sherri O Stuver1, Megan A Healey1
1Epidemiology Department, School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts.
American Journal of Epidemiology
|March 14, 2019
Summary
Future epidemiology teaching will integrate digital tools and address gaps in causal thinking and scientific communication. This ensures a more robust understanding and application of epidemiological principles in a changing world.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Medical Education
- Public Health
Background:
- Technological advancements and societal changes necessitate evolving teaching methods in epidemiology.
- Current epidemiology curricula may lack comprehensive instruction in causal reasoning and effective scientific communication.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and address critical gaps in current epidemiology education.
- To explore the impact of digital technology on teaching modalities in epidemiology.
Main Methods:
- Review of current epidemiology curricula and teaching practices.
- Analysis of the role of digital technology in educational settings.
- Identification of areas for improvement in causal thinking, communication, and interpretation skills.
Main Results:
- Gaps identified in formal instruction of causal thinking, research question formulation, scientific communication, and interpretation of results.
- Digital technologies present both challenges and advantages for classroom and online epidemiology instruction.
Conclusions:
- Epidemiology education must adapt to incorporate enhanced causal thinking and communication skills.
- Integrating digital technologies effectively can improve the delivery and accessibility of epidemiology training.
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