Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2018 - HSCI 140 D100

Complementary and Alternative Medicine (3)

Class Number: 11264

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 3 – Apr 10, 2018: Wed, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Apr 12, 2018
    Thu, 3:30–6:30 p.m.
    Burnaby

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

A scientific, critical, and evidence-based examination of integrative, complementary, and alternative approaches to health. Why so many people are skeptical of conventional medicine and contemporary treatment modalities. Incorporation of traditional medicines into mainstream medicine. the need to investigate, and to protect the public from fraud. The extent to which both complementary and mainstream medicine can withstand the scrutiny of an evidence-based approach. Breadth-Social Sciences.

COURSE DETAILS:

A critical and evidence-based examination of integrative, complementary, and alternative approaches to medicine.  The different modalities, benefits, harms, placebo effect, study designs to address evidence, critical appraisal of the literature, safety, ethical issues and politics of alternative medicine will be discussed.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

Upon completion of the course, students will be able to explain: 
•    What makes a difference in health and well being from different points of view
•    Describe the different types of CAMS
•    Know the main advantages and limitations of CAM
•    Describe the socio-psychological, economical, ethical and safety issues related to CAM 
•    Be able to critically assess articles in CAM, and apply basic tools to evaluate studies in CAM.

Grading

  • Midterm I 20%
  • Midterm II 20%
  • Project 20%
  • Final Exam 40%

NOTES:

The professor may make changes to the syllabus if necessary, within Faculty / University regulations.

Breadth-Social Sciences.

REQUIREMENTS:

No specific requirements

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

No specific book is required. Various books and on-line resources will be used. Lecture notes will be available through Canvas.

REQUIRED READING:

Lecture notes and the links to websites will be posted on Canvas.

Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://students.sfu.ca/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS