Innovation in Public Health Education
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Online M.P.H. Director Elahe Nezami, Ph.D., says her program equips graduates with both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to succeed.
Innovation in public health education is critical to ensure that today’s graduate students are equipped with both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to address tomorrow’s public health challenges.
An innovative feature of the Online Master of Public Health program at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine is the deliberate integration of soft skills alongside technical knowledge. In consultation with seasoned practitioners, we have enhanced our curriculum to emphasize communication, leadership, teamwork and adaptability. These skills are crucial for success in the dynamic field of public health, where interpersonal and collaborative abilities are just as vital as technical expertise.
By encouraging critical reflection, students are prompted to challenge their assumptions and broaden their perspectives on public health issues.
—Dr. Elahe Nezami
Our students develop these competencies through cutting-edge, adult learning strategies, ensuring an engaging and impactful learning experience that fosters both personal and professional growth. This holistic approach ensures that our graduates are not only proficient in public health theory but also prepared to thrive in diverse, real-world environments.
The Transformational Learning Model
Central to our approach is the transformational learning model, which supports students’ evolution as they progress through the M.P.H. curriculum.
By encouraging critical reflection, students are prompted to challenge their assumptions and broaden their perspectives on public health issues.
This transformation is fundamental, as it equips learners to become more adaptive and resilient public health practitioners, better prepared to tackle complex challenges in their field.
Collaborative Learning
We have also prioritized connectivity and community-building among our online M.P.H. students by fostering a supportive network that enhances collaborative learning.
Through group projects, discussion forums and regular dialogues, our students engage in meaningful exchanges that refine their critical thinking skills. This collaborative environment is enriched by structured faculty feedback, guiding students in real time and helping them refine their ideas and approaches.
Additionally, the pedagogical concept called Kolb’s experiential learning cycle (concrete learning, reflective observation, abstract conceptualization and active experimentation) is a cornerstone of our program, ensuring that each topic is relevant and memorable. By linking course material to real-world events and triggering reflection on personal experiences, students not only deepen their understanding but also retain what they’re learning more effectively.
Together, these innovative strategies ensure that our program resonates with learners long after they complete their studies.
Tags: Dr. Elahe Nezami, online M.P.H., public health, public health sciences
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