The final project for this course will ask you to explore both the scientific and the social aspects of an infectious disease of your choice in one cohesive project, drawing connections between the scientific and social aspects.
SPECIFICS FOR FINAL PROJECT
With Pre-Projects 1 and 2, you were able to gain experience writing about these subjects and an idea of what we are looking for in your writing. With the final project, you can put these skills and knowledge to use and will have the chance to expand on an infectious disease you find interesting.
As in Pre-project 1, you are asked to characterize the structure of your pathogen of choice as related to its pathogenesis, describe clinical features of infection and give an appropriate epidemiological background for your pathogen of choice. As with Pre-project 2, you are asked to describe one particular social aspect that influences the spread of the infectious disease caused by your pathogen of choice.
While Pre-projects 1 and 2 were separate pieces, written about distinct infectious diseases, the final project should tell one cohesive story. The scientific aspects, particularly the epidemiological information you share, should provide relevant background and context to understand the impact of social aspect you focus on. An informative title, introduction and conclusion will all be important to help tie the story together.
Learning Outcomes:
• Identify and communicate key aspects of the biology underlying an infectious disease.
• Recognize and communicate how a social aspect can lead to a disease’s spread, or its impact on society.
• Determine reputable sources of evidence and be able to cite them.
• Communicate concisely within a word limit.
• Assess the strengths and weaknesses of your peers’ submissions and provide concrete suggestions for how they can improve.
