Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit is designed to further develop public health knowledge and practice by addressing health issues in a low to middle-income country (LMIC). UWA students, in collaboration with a local NGO/health agency or university, will investigate a health-related issue that has been identified as a local priority. Students will interact with local health professionals, government officials and community members as well as undertake field observations and data collection. Students will prepare a report and presentation on their investigation for the NGO/health agency or university and other relevant agencies.

Through these activities, students will be able to develop an appreciation and understanding of health issues in a LMIC; reflect on the similarities and differences to the Australia context, apply theoretical understanding of health to real-life problems and develop cross-cultural communication skills.

Credit
6 points
Offering
AvailabilityLocationMode
Not available in 2024UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 2 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) examine factors that enable or are barriers to the success and sustainability of health-related issues/programs; (2) apply skills of field observation, recording, questioning and analysis; (3) apply effective communication skills in a different cultural setting; and (4) identify their limitations and how and when to access support.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) pre-trip assignment; (2) group fieldwork report and presentation; and (3) participation in fieldwork activities and tutorials, including reflections on cross-cultural communication and practice. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Dr Julie Saunders
Unit rules
Advisable prior study
PUBH1101 Health and Illness in Human Populations
or PUBH1102 Health and Globalisation
or PUBH2216 Communication and Project Planning in Health
Approved quota: 20—based upon the students' expressions of interest, interview and academic performance. Students from diverse majors are encouraged to apply to provide a multidisciplinary experience.
Incidental fees
Incidental student fees and charges are costs incurred by students as part of their studies at UWA that are in addition to their tuition fees (further information is available here).
Participation in this unit will incur the following incidental fee(s):
Airfares, accommodation, internal travel, host fee and daily living during the overseas field work. (estimated cost - 3,000).
Contact hours
Seminars up to 6 x 2 hours
1-3 week fieldwork overseas
Note
Police Clearance or Working with Children check may be required. Given the international nature of the field trip, students need to be aware that the unit may be cancelled if travel warnings are issued for the fieldtrip destination prior to departure, or during the visit. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) regularly reviews and reissues their travel advice to reflect the level of danger they perceive to be present in each country and travel will not proceed if DFAT issues a Level 4 travel warning (i.e. 'Reconsider your need to travel'). In the event of an emergency during the field trip, and where DFAT re-classifies the travel advice for the fieldtrip destination to a Level 4, students will be instructed to return to Australia as soon as possible. For further details, refer to the UWA Emergency Travel Management Plan. Please note that a condition of enrolment in this unit is the student's adherence to the unit requirements prior to departure. The following criteria must be met to remain enrolled in the unit: (1) assignment 1 must be submitted and completed to a satisfactory standard; (2) application for a visa must be submitted by the specified due date; (3) travel is organized as per instructions provided (4) emergency contacts/pre-existing health conditions and medication use must be submitted to the School of Population and Global Health by the specified due date; and (5) the student is to read and commit to follow the UWA policy on code of conduct for field work and health and safety advice as outlined in the unit guidebook.
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.