Innovation of health data science curricula

There is a growing need for innovation to prepare a well-trained health informatics workforce with data science and digital technology skills. To meet the workforce demands and prepare students for a career in health informatics, a Health Data Science (HDS) concentration was added to the Master's in Health Informatics (MSHI) program at the University of Illinois at Chicago.

Four levels of learning were incorporated into the curriculum to prepare students for highly complex jobs in health informatics. Leader interviews, advisory board meetings, and mixed faculty expertise were utilized as inputs to survey and analyze the skills employers seek in the job market. An innovative rapid infusion approach was used to design assessments across the levels of learning that simulate real-world scenarios where these competencies are used.

Course evaluation surveys revealed strong satisfaction with the quality of the course and agreed that the course was intellectually challenging and stimulating. Students reported the 3 most beneficial aspects were: the live lectures, hands-on data research and manipulation, and simulated real-world situations.

This article discusses using a rapid infusion approach to developing active learning assignments designed to build competencies employers are seeking. These competencies also develop creative, divergent thinking with flexible, student-defined solutions. Survey data validates the approach to active learning put into context and made relevant to the learner. The benefit of the concentration is to provide students with the preparation for a successful entry into the Health Informatics field, one of the fastest-growing careers in healthcare.