Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2025 - HSCI 160 D100

Global Perspectives on Health (3)

Class Number: 3480

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An introduction to the differences in health and health services among the nations of the globe. Vulnerable sub-populations worldwide and their special health needs. Mechanisms whereby events in one country can impact health in another. Future worldwide health risks, their economic and health consequences. SARS, avian 'flu,' West Nile virus, 'mad cow disease,' antibiotic resistant malaria or tuberculosis. Dangers to rich and poor nations from ignoring health problems in developing world. Breadth-Social Sciences.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course explores the interconnected health of people, animals and the environment across the globe. Students will learn about fundamental frameworks for conceptualizing health and discuss global health issues through an interdisciplinary lens. Using this approach, students will learn about the factors and dynamics that impact health and critically examine the systems that affect health risks and exposures. Together we will explore health across scales (individual, population, global), health disparities and disease burden, and the determinants of health (such as social and ecological) that shape health outcomes. Using a global perspective, we will discuss past, present, and future health challenges and identify interventions and strategies to strengthen our shared health.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

By the end of the course, students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of:

  • The similarities and differences across the concepts of Global Health, One Health, Planetary Health and EcoHealth
  • The determinants of health and risk factors for diseases and conditions from the global perspective;
  • Key global health concepts, including: demographic and epidemiological transitions, burden of disease, impact of key health conditions on individuals and communities, and critical issues in health services delivery;
  • The burden of disease in various regions of the world and how it varies both within and across countries;
  • Health disparities, vulnerable populations;
  • The interconnected links among human, animal and environmental health and their relation to ecosocial factors;
  • The role of the key actors/organizations in global health and the manner in which they interact to address global health issues

Grading

  • In class quizes 20%
  • Global Health Report 30%
  • Movie Review 25%
  • Pandemic Measures Reflection 10%
  • Online Participation 15%

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

Textbook: Richard Skolnik, Global Health 101 Fourth Edition, 2020, ISBN: 9781284145380 https://www.jblearning.com/health-sciences-professions/health/global-health/productdetails/9781284145380

Additional online readings will also be assigned throughout the course. This will be available open access or through the SFU library.

REQUIRED READING:

Textbook: Richard Skolnik, Global Health 101 Fourth Edition, 2020, ISBN: 9781284145380 https://www.jblearning.com/health-sciences-professions/health/global-health/productdetails/9781284145380

Additional online readings will also be assigned throughout the course. This will be available open access or through the SFU library.


REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity website http://www.sfu.ca/students/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

RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.