Outline

Overview

This unit examines how scientists use translational research to address contemporary medical challenges. If medical research is going to improve health outcomes, scientists must communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders, from government and the healthcare system to patients and the public. Building on what you learned in second year, you will examine how our leading researchers explore the complex science behind the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases such as diabetes and obesity. You will work with a range of experts (including storytellers, sociologists, media professionals, linguists, bio-designers and data-visualisers) on the strategies we use to communicate their findings. Individually and in groups, you will develop your verbal, written and presentation skills to communicate complex research to diverse target audiences (such as young people, patients and the elderly) to influence their behaviour and produce positive health outcomes. You will develop effective strategies for working in the space between current medical science research and the health needs of patients and the public. These are essential skills for anyone pursuing a career in medical science.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit	Department of Medical Sciences
Credit points	6
Prerequisites ?	18 credit points of MEDS20XX
Corequisites ?	None
Prohibitions ?	None
Assumed knowledge ?	None
Available to study abroad and exchange students	No

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Martin Brown, martin.brown@sydney.edu.au

Assessment

The census date for this unit availability is 31 March 2026

Details
Criteria

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length	Use of AI
Written work	ChatGPT Essay Create Prompt for Chat GPT to write 1st Draft. Edit Draft. Submit Prompt, Draft, Final	15%	Week 03 Due date: 15 Mar 2026 at 23:59 Closing date: 01 Mar 2026	Prompt ~100w Draft ~500w Edit ~700w	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Presentation	ChatGPT Audio Is ChatGPT harmful?	10%	Week 04 Due date: 22 Mar 2026 at 23:59 Closing date: 05 Apr 2026	60 seconds	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Presentation	Presentation 1 Present content to target demographic	15%	Week 08	6 minutes	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Written work	Lecture References 1 Explain how you used lecture content in group presentation.	2.5%	Week 08 Due date: 26 Apr 2026 at 23:59 Closing date: 10 May 2026	~200w	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
In-class quiz	Quiz 1 Questions on Module 2 lectures	15%	Week 09	30 Minutes	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Presentation	Presentation 2 Present content to target demographic	20%	Week 12	8 Minutes	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Written work	Lecture References 2 Explain how you used lecture content in group presentation.	2.5%	Week 12 Due date: 24 May 2026 at 23:59 Closing date: 07 Jun 2026	~200w	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
In-class quiz	Quiz 2 Questions on Module 3 lectures	15%	Week 13	30 Minutes	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Evaluation	Group Participation SRES feedback on other group members' contribution.	5%	Week 13 Due date: 31 May 2026 at 23:59	~100w	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
= group assignment ?

Assessment summary

Presentations: Working in allocated groups, you will be required to deliver a presentation on the content covered in each module to a target audience.
Quiz: Consisting of up to 20 multiple choice questions, these quizzes will test your understanding of material covered in each module. These quizzes will be scheduled to be available during your scheduled Worshop timeslot.
Assignment: ChatGPT Essay: You will prompt ChatGPT to write an essay a medical issue of your choice. You will edit this draft yourself to improve the essay. You will submit the Prompt, the 1st Draft and the Improved Draft.
Assignment: ChatGPT Audio: You will discuss the benefits, dangers and challenges of using ChatGPT in your own voice.
Assignment: Lecture References: You will submit a description of how you used content from the Module 2 & 3 lectures in your Group Presentation.
Assignment: Group Participation: You will submit an assessment of the contributon of the other members of the group to the Presentations.

Assessment criteria

The University awards common result grades, set out in the Coursework Policy 2014 (Schedule 1).

As a general guide, a high distinction indicates work of an exceptional standard, a distinction a very high standard, a credit a good standard, and a pass an acceptable standard.

Result name	Mark range	Description
High distinction	85 - 100	At HD level, a student demonstrates a flair for the subject as well as a detailed and comprehensive understanding of the unit material. A ‘High Distinction’ reflects exceptional achievement and is awarded to a student who demonstrates the ability to apply their subject knowledge and understanding to produce original solutions for novel or highly complex problems and/or comprehensive critical discussions of theoretical concepts.
Distinction	75 - 84	At DI level, a student demonstrates an aptitude for the subject and a well-developed understanding of the unit material. A ‘Distinction’ reflects excellent achievement and is awarded to a student who demonstrates an ability to apply their subject knowledge and understanding of the subject to produce good solutions for challenging problems and/or a reasonably well-developed critical analysis of theoretical concepts.
Credit	65 - 74	At CR level, a student demonstrates a good command and knowledge of the unit material. A ‘Credit’ reflects solid achievement and is awarded to a student who has a broad general understanding of the unit material and can solve routine problems and/or identify and superficially discuss theoretical concepts.
Pass	50 - 64	At PS level, a student demonstrates proficiency in the unit material. A ‘Pass’ reflects satisfactory achievement and is awarded to a student who has threshold knowledge.
Fail	0 - 49	When you don’t meet the learning outcomes of the unit to a satisfactory standard.

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

This unit has an exception to the standard University policy or supplementary information has been provided by the unit coordinator. This information is displayed below:

If you concerned that you are going to be late submitting an assignment, please contact your Unit Coordinator.

Academic integrity

The University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed the Academic Honesty Education Module (AHEM) which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Learning support

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy reflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

Weekly schedule

WK	Topic	Learning activity
Week 01	Introduction: The Problem	Lecture (1 hr)
	The Storytelling Animal	Lecture (1 hr)
	Approaches to Communicating Science	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 02	Explain Visually, Explain Well: What Makes A Good Figure?	Lecture (1 hr)
	Framing the Conversation	Lecture (1 hr)
	Data Visualisation for Non-Expert Audiences	Lecture (1 hr)
	Storytelling	Workshop (3 hr)
Week 03	Priming and Overshadowing	Lecture (1 hr)
	Navigating to Reliable Research	Lecture (1 hr)
	Generative AI and Judgement	Lecture (1 hr)
	Communication Skills	Workshop (3 hr)
Week 04	Module Overview and The Problem (Obesity,T2D)	Lecture (1 hr)
	Review of fasting metabolism	Lecture (1 hr)
	Review of feeding metabolism	Lecture (1 hr)
	Data Workshop 1	Workshop (3 hr)
Week 05	Dietary Solutions (VLED, CR, IF, TRF)	Lecture (1 hr)
	Calorie Restriction (Humans and Animal Models)	Lecture (1 hr)
	Intermittent fasting (Humans and Animal Models)	Lecture (1 hr)
	Data Workshop 2	Workshop (3 hr)
Week 06	Key Pathways (IGF-1,mTOR,AMPK)	Lecture (1 hr)
	Biology Perspective	Lecture (1 hr)
	Tableau Data Visualisation Workshop	Workshop (3 hr)
	Clinician's Perspective	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 07	New Mechanisms from Omics 1	Lecture (1 hr)
	New Mechanisms from Omics 2	Lecture (1 hr)
	COVID19 and Obesity/T2D	Lecture (1 hr)
	Presentation Skills	Workshop (3 hr)
Week 08	Introduction to Module 3: Mental Health	Lecture (1 hr)
	Mental Health Lecture TBC	Lecture (1 hr)
	Mental Health Lecture TBC	Lecture (1 hr)
	Presentation 1	Workshop (3 hr)
Week 09	Mental Health Lecture TBC	Lecture (1 hr)
	Mental Health Lecture TBC	Lecture (1 hr)
	Mental Health Lecture TBC	Lecture (1 hr)
	MCQ 1 and Group Work	Workshop (3 hr)
Week 10	Mental Health Lecture TBC	Lecture (1 hr)
	Mental Health Lecture TBC	Lecture (1 hr)
	Mental Health Lecture TBC	Lecture (1 hr)
	Writing Skills	Workshop (3 hr)
Week 11	Mental Health Lecture TBC	Lecture (1 hr)
	Mental Health Lecture TBC	Lecture (1 hr)
	Mental Health Lecture TBC	Lecture (1 hr)
	Presentation Rehearsal	Workshop (3 hr)
Week 12	Presentation 2	Workshop (3 hr)
Week 13	MCQ 2, USS, Wrap Up	Workshop (3 hr)

Attendance and class requirements

The current standard work load for a 6 credit point unit of study is up to 6 hours per week of teaching contact hours and an additional approximately one hour out of class time independent study for each timetabled hour. This means for every face-to-face hour you are expected to undertake independent student effort of 1 hour for each unit of study.

In MEDS3001 all lectures are face-to-face on campus. It is expected that you will attend and engage with the lectures during their scheduled time. It is important to note that although lectures are scheduled to be recorded, we cannot guarantee that every lecture will be recorded successfully. Lecture notes and recordings are intended to support, not replace, your attendance at lectures. Remember, you are in control of your own study strategy and it is up to you to devise a study plan that best suits you.

Attendance is essential for successful completion of this course. The workshops are COMPULSORY and attendance will be checked. Any missed workshop without approved special consideration will be marked absent and deemed not to have met the threshold learning outcomes for this unit of study. Faculty guidelines stipulate a minimum 80% attendance to ALL scheduled classes. Failure to meet this requirement is grounds for an Absent Fail being awarded.

The assessments, as outlined on Canvas, are COMPULSORY, and failure to attend/complete an assessment is grounds for a grade of Absent Fail being awarded (AF) for the Unit of Study. Each assessment task has marking criteria and the marks generated should comply with University assessment policy. It is important to note that raw marks for individual assessments may be moderated in accordance with University Academic Board guidelines. Where this occurs, moderated results will be indicated as such with postings and notification provided on Canvas.

For a 6 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 120-150 hours of student effort in total.

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 6 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 120-150 hours of student effort in total.

Required readings

All materials will be provided through the Canvas site.

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

Outcomes
Graduate qualities

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 appropriate use of approaches, such as storytelling, data visualisation, 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 in collaborative and individuals contexts.
LO5. Communicate and collaborate with groups and individuals from diverse, disciplines, socio-economic background and cultures.

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1	Depth of disciplinary expertise Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.
GQ2	Critical thinking and problem solving Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.
GQ3	Oral and written communication Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.
GQ4	Information and digital literacy Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.
GQ5	Inventiveness Generating novel ideas and solutions.
GQ6	Cultural competence Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.
GQ7	Interdisciplinary effectiveness Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.
GQ8	Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.
GQ9	Influence Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes	Graduate qualities
Learning outcomes

Responding to student feedback

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

As this unit deals with contemporary medical challenges, we are continually editing the content and topics to reflect emerging research. For example, this year we are aligning Module 3 more closely to the Module 2 content by examining links between diabetes & obesity and metal health.

Additional information

Work, health and safety

We are governed by the Work Health and Safety Act 2011, Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 and Codes of Practice. Penalties for non-compliance have increased. Everyone has a responsibility for health and safety at work. The University’s Work Health and Safety policy explains the responsibilities and expectations of workers and others, and the procedures for managing WHS risks associated with University activities.

General Laboratory Safety Rules

No eating or drinking is allowed in any laboratory under any circumstances
A laboratory coat and closed-toe shoes are mandatory
Follow safety instructions in your manual and posted in laboratories
In case of fire, follow instructions posted outside the laboratory door
First aid kits, eye wash and fire extinguishers are located in or immediately outside each laboratory
As a precautionary measure, it is recommended that you have a current tetanus immunisation. This can be obtained from University Health Service: unihealth.usyd.edu.au/

Disclaimer

Important: the University of Sydney regularly reviews units of study and reserves the right to change the units of study available annually. To stay up to date on available study options, including unit of study details and availability, refer to the relevant handbook.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.

Current students

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Assessment summary

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links

MEDS3001: Contemporary Medical Challenges

Semester 1, 2026 [Normal day] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Assessment summary

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links