Course outline
Course summary
Critical examination of concepts of health and need; complexity of factors influencing health and well being; political and social context of public health policy; research evidence of health inequalities and social exclusion; population health; epidemiology and interpretation of population data; managing conflicting evidence; systematic process of health needs assessment including participatory approaches; comparative study of health promotion theories and approaches; evidence base for collaborative public health interventions; ethical considerations; strategic planning for health improvement.
Intended learning outcomes
At the end of the module, you will be able to:
- Critically analyse the social and political context of the development of public health policy and its impact on public health practice.
- Demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge and critical understanding of the concepts of health and need.
- Explore and critically analyse the complexity of the relationship between material, psychosocial and behavioural determinants of health and well being, drawing upon research-based knowledge of inequalities in health and the impact of social exclusion.
- Evaluate and interpret data and information from a range of sources to inform the process of health needs assessment and make sound rational judgements about the priorities of a defined population.
- Interpret and apply the research evidence base for health promotion approaches and collaborative interventions, managing the implications and the complexities of ethical dilemmas that arise.
Core bibliography
- Cameron, E., Mathers, J., Parry, J. (2008) Health and well-being: questioning the use of health concepts in public health policy and practice. Critical Public Health, 18, (2), p. 225-232
- Douglas J et al (2006) A reader in promoting public health: challenge and controversy. London: Sage.
- Earl, S et al (2007) Theory and research in promoting public health. London: Sage
- Green, J., Labonte, R (2007) Critical perspectives in public health. London: Routledge.
- Holland, S. (2008) Public Health Ethics. Cambridge: Polity.
- Kaptein, A., Weinman, J. (2008) Health Psychology. 2nd ed. Oxford: Blackwell. Lloyd, C.E et al (2007) Policy and practice in promoting public health. London: Sage
- Journal: Critical Public Health
Modules
Programme Specification
Assessment, Feedback, and Teaching and Learning methods
Timetables
Entry requirements
Entry Requirements
Evidence of prior successful study at underpinning level.
Selection criteria
To be eligible to study this module you should be able to apply it to your practice.
