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Unit of study_
MEDS3001: Contemporary Medical Challenges
2024 unit information
This unit examines how scientists approach contemporary medical challenges. These challenges are primarily addressed by rigorous medical research. However, to have true societal impact, scientists must also employ effective communication to engage the diverse stakeholders, from government and the health system to patients and the public in general. Building on what you learned in second year, this unit will explore how we research, manage and communicate advances in the prevention and treatment of complex diseases (such as diabetes and obesity) that have a widespread impact on society. You will work with our best researchers to investigate not only the complexities of the science behind diseases and how these complexities are communicated, but also to appreciate the uncertainty and subtleties in these methods of communication. You will learn how we work with a range of experts (including storytellers, sociologists, media professionals, linguists, bio-designers and data-visualisers) to help shape this communication. Individually and in groups, you will develop the skills required to communicate complex research findings to diverse target audiences (children, patients, the elderly) to influence their behaviour and produce positive health outcomes. You will develop strategies and frameworks that are effective in the space between current medical science research and the health needs of patients and the public. These are essential, foundational skills for anyone pursuing a career involving the medical sciences.
Unit details and rules
Managing faculty or University school:
Department of Medical Sciences
| Code | MEDS3001 |
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| Academic unit | Department of Medical Sciences |
| Credit points | 6 |
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Prerequisites:
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18cp of MEDS200X |
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Corequisites:
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None |
| Prohibitions:
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None |
| Assumed knowledge:
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None |
At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:
- LO1. Explain the significance of current medical science research findings, including translational clinical outcomes.
- LO2. Demonstrate your ability to communicate scientifically through the use of non-science disciplines, such as policy and ethics.
- LO3. Evaluate and apply evidence-based information from different sources to a given medical science problem.
- LO4. Identify creative and innovative problem solving techniques to enhance individuals and collaborative efforts.
- LO5. Communicate and collaborate with diverse groups from multiple disciplines and cultures.
Unit availability
This section lists the session, attendance modes and locations the unit is available in. There is a unit outline for each of the unit availabilities, which gives you information about the unit including assessment details and a schedule of weekly activities.
The outline is published 2 weeks before the first day of teaching. You can look at previous outlines for a guide to the details of a unit.
Modes of attendance (MoA)
This refers to the Mode of attendance (MoA) for the unit as it appears when you’re selecting your units in Sydney Student. Find more information about modes of attendance on our website.
