Monash University Handbook 2011 Undergraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Synopsis

This unit introduces students to a population view of health. The primary purpose is to provide students with a solid foundation for optimising health and well-being at a community or population level. Discussions are based on what data is available and is collected and how this is used to determine what the major health issues are, who is at risk of ill-health, what the determinants or influences on human health and disease are, and what is the potential for prevention. This unit focuses on Australia's health, and covers the environmental, economic, social and political determinants of health during different aspects of the lifespan and in particular population groups

Objectives

By completion of this unit, it is expected that the student will be able to:

1. Define public health and population health and distinguish between feature of population health and individual health,
2. Identify sources of data to determine the magnitude of population health issues and groups at risk,
3. Identify the social, environment, economical and political influences on health at a population level,
4. Describe different approached to prevent or manage population health issues including legislative, environmental and economic approached,
5. Demonstrate an understanding of the role in population health in informing public health practice,
6. Demonstrate skills in the observation, collection, presentation and critical evaluation of population health data.

Assessment

Two in-class tests: 20%
Written report (2000 words): 20%
Tutorial participation: 10%
Written examination: 50%
Hurdle requirement of 80% tutorial participation

Chief examiner(s)

Darshini Ayton

Contact hours

12 Hours per week including 3 hours of contact time and 9 hours of private study