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Olakunle Alonge, Svea Closser, and Anna Kalbarczyk

- Conduct epidemiologic surveillance to inform decision-making

- Apply best practices for healthcare data collection and analysis

- Apply the lessons learned from the polio eradication effort

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- Conduct epidemiologic surveillance to inform decision-making

- Apply best practices for healthcare data collection and analysis

- Apply the lessons learned from the polio eradication effort

This informative three-week course will prepare you to meet the challenges of conducting epidemiologic surveillance to gather data to inform decision-making and planning. Using the polio eradication effort as a case study, you’ll address the application of surveillance systems in a wide variety of settings. Throughout the course, you’ll reflect on and apply the lessons learned from the global polio eradication initiative, an effort led by the World Health Organisation resolved to eradicate the disease poliomyelitis. You will learn lessons from this initiative - the largest of its kind in history -and will apply data for decision-making going forward. You’ll also discuss the challenges and strategies that can be presented when applying data.

You will identify various different epidemiological systems in countries, such as the Democratic Republic of Congo and Nigeria, and on how to conduct data collection in remote areas. Then, you will discuss the best practices for conducting epidemiologic surveillance in a wide range of locations and will come to a range of solutions for the conclusion of how to conduct and use data in a variety of different situations.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Polio eradication basics
This course considers polio as a case study for addressing viruses and vaccines. This module will begin with an overview of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative and Implementation Science. Then, we will go into some details about the polio virus and vaccine, and eradication as a strategy for global disease control. It's important to think about how the characteristics of a disease, and the strategies chosen to control it, determine what data are collected and how.
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Field Epidemiology and Outbreak Response
In this module, we will begin with an overview of surveillance systems - a core component of disease control and eradication. We will learn about surveillance as a decision support system for planned as well as outbreak responses. We will then consider various strategies for quality and complete surveillance in diverse contexts, and end the week with a roundtable discussion on conducting surveillance in hard to reach areas.
Data for Decision-making
In this module, we will begin with an overview of the different types of data collected by the polio program. We will then consider how these data are used to make critical decisions for the program. We will discuss strategies for collecting quality and complete data, and end the week with a roundtable discussion on incentivizing quality data.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Examines the topic of polio eradication, which is an important topic in global public health
Discusses the strategies used for polio eradication, providing learners with valuable insights into the field of epidemiology
Explores the challenges and successes of the polio eradication effort, offering learners a comprehensive understanding of the topic
Incorporates multiple modules, providing learners with a well-rounded understanding of epidemiology and data collection
Covers a range of topics, including polio eradication basics, field epidemiology, and data analysis, providing learners with a broad foundation in epidemiology
Introduces learners to best practices for healthcare data collection and analysis, providing them with valuable skills for their careers

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Data Use for Disease Control & Global Health Decision-Making with these activities:
Review Intro to Data Science
Quickly revisiting the basics of data science will help refresh your memory on key concepts and techniques, making it easier to grasp the more advanced material in this course.
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  • Revisit your notes or textbook from an introductory data science course.
  • Complete a few practice exercises or quizzes to test your understanding.
Read 'Principles of Epidemiology' by Leon Gordis
Review a comprehensive textbook to gain a solid understanding of epidemiological concepts and methods.
View Epidemiology on Amazon
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  • Purchase or borrow the book.
  • Read each chapter and take notes on key concepts.
  • Complete the practice exercises and review questions.
Review Epidemiology Principles
Watch tutorials to refresh core concepts, such as disease transmission and data analysis techniques.
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  • Identify reputable sources for epidemiology tutorials.
  • Watch videos and take notes on key concepts.
  • Practice applying the concepts to sample data.
Seven other activities
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Practice Data Visualization Techniques
Regular practice with data visualization tools will enhance your ability to effectively communicate insights from data, a critical skill for epidemiologists.
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  • Sign up for a free trial of a data visualization software like Tableau or Power BI.
  • Follow tutorials or online courses to learn the basics of the software.
  • Create a few simple visualizations using real-world data sets.
Participate in Case Study Discussions
Analyze real-world case studies with peers to gain insights into epidemiological investigations and decision-making.
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  • Join study groups or connect with classmates for peer discussions.
  • Review and analyze case studies, considering the epidemiological principles and methods applied.
  • Discuss findings, share perspectives, and engage in critical thinking.
Develop a Resource Collection on Data Collection Methods
Gather and organize resources to enhance knowledge and skills in data collection techniques.
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  • Search for articles, guidelines, and online tools on data collection methods.
  • Compile a list of resources in a structured format (e.g., spreadsheet, annotated bibliography).
  • Review and reflect on the collected resources to identify gaps in knowledge.
Conduct Outbreak Investigation Simulations
Participate in simulations to develop skills in identifying and controlling disease outbreaks.
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  • Join online simulation platforms or find local training opportunities.
  • Participate in simulations and analyze data to determine the source of the outbreak.
  • Develop and implement control measures based on simulation findings.
Attend an Epidemiology Workshop
Enhance skills and knowledge by participating in workshops led by experts in the field of epidemiology.
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  • Identify upcoming epidemiology workshops or conferences.
  • Register and attend the workshop, actively participating in sessions.
  • Engage with speakers and attendees to exchange knowledge and ideas.
Design a Surveillance System for a Specific Disease
Apply epidemiological principles to design a surveillance system tailored to a particular disease or condition.
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  • Select a specific disease or condition of interest.
  • Research current surveillance practices and identify gaps or areas for improvement.
  • Develop a plan outlining the components of the surveillance system, including data collection methods, data analysis techniques, and reporting mechanisms.
  • Create a prototype or simulation to test the effectiveness of the designed system.
Become a Volunteer Tutor or Mentor
Reinforce your understanding by sharing knowledge and assisting others in grasping epidemiological concepts.
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  • Reach out to schools, community centers, or online platforms to offer your services.
  • Tutor or mentor students in epidemiology or related subjects.
  • Provide guidance, support, and answer questions to aid in their understanding.

Career center

Learners who complete Data Use for Disease Control & Global Health Decision-Making will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Healthcare Data Analyst
A Healthcare Data Analyst collects, analyzes, and interprets data to improve the quality and efficiency of healthcare delivery. If you are interested in a career as a Healthcare Data Analyst, taking the Data Use for Disease Control & Global Health Decision-Making course will give you the skills you need to effectively use data to improve patient care. This course will also teach you how to apply best practices for healthcare data collection and analysis.
Global Health Analyst
A Global Health Analyst collects, analyzes, and interprets data to identify and address global health problems. The Data Use for Disease Control & Global Health Decision-Making course can help you build a strong foundation in data analysis and management, which will be essential for your success as a Global Health Analyst. This course will also teach you how to apply best practices for healthcare data collection and analysis.
Clinical Research Associate
A Clinical Research Associate (CRA) manages and conducts clinical trials for new drugs and medical devices. The Data Use for Disease Control & Global Health Decision-Making course can help you build a strong foundation in data analysis and management, which will be essential for your success as a CRA. This course will also teach you how to apply best practices for healthcare data collection and analysis.
Public Health Analyst
A Public Health Analyst collects, analyzes, and interprets data to identify and address public health problems. The Data Use for Disease Control & Global Health Decision-Making course can help you build a strong foundation in data analysis and management, which will be essential for your success as a Public Health Analyst. This course will also teach you how to apply best practices for healthcare data collection and analysis.
Nonprofit Program Manager
A Nonprofit Program Manager plans and implements programs to address social and environmental issues. The Data Use for Disease Control & Global Health Decision-Making course can help you build a strong foundation in data analysis and management, which will be essential for your success as a Nonprofit Program Manager. This course will also teach you how to apply best practices for healthcare data collection and analysis.
Health Policy Analyst
A Health Policy Analyst develops and evaluates policies to improve the health of the population. The Data Use for Disease Control & Global Health Decision-Making course can help you build a strong foundation in data analysis and management, which will be essential for your success as a Health Policy Analyst. This course will also teach you how to apply best practices for healthcare data collection and analysis.
International Development Specialist
An International Development Specialist works to improve the lives of people in developing countries. The Data Use for Disease Control & Global Health Decision-Making course can help you build a strong foundation in data analysis and management, which will be essential for your success as an International Development Specialist. This course will also teach you how to apply best practices for healthcare data collection and analysis.
Disease Surveillance Specialist
A Disease Surveillance Specialist collects, analyzes, and interprets health data to identify and track disease trends. If you are interested in a career as a Disease Surveillance Specialist, taking the Data Use for Disease Control & Global Health Decision-Making course will give you the skills you need to effectively use data to inform decision-making and plan for disease prevention and control.
Public Relations Specialist
A Public Relations Specialist manages the public image of an organization or individual. The Data Use for Disease Control & Global Health Decision-Making course can help you build a strong foundation in data analysis and management, which will be essential for your success as a Public Relations Specialist. This course will also teach you how to apply best practices for healthcare data collection and analysis.
Health Educator
A Health Educator develops and implements educational programs to improve the health of the population. The Data Use for Disease Control & Global Health Decision-Making course can help you build a strong foundation in data analysis and management, which will be essential for your success as a Health Educator. This course will also teach you how to apply best practices for healthcare data collection and analysis.
Market Research Analyst
A Market Research Analyst collects, analyzes, and interprets data to identify and understand consumer needs. The Data Use for Disease Control & Global Health Decision-Making course can help you build a strong foundation in data analysis and management, which will be essential for your success as a Market Research Analyst. This course will also teach you how to apply best practices for healthcare data collection and analysis.
Health Communication Specialist
A Health Communication Specialist develops and implements communication campaigns to promote health and prevent disease. The Data Use for Disease Control & Global Health Decision-Making course can help you build a strong foundation in data analysis and management, which will be essential for your success as a Health Communication Specialist. This course will also teach you how to apply best practices for healthcare data collection and analysis.
Data Scientist
A Data Scientist collects, analyzes, and interprets large amounts of data to extract meaningful insights. The Data Use for Disease Control & Global Health Decision-Making course can help you build a strong foundation in data analysis and management, which will be essential for your success as a Data Scientist. This course will also teach you how to use data to inform decision-making, which is a critical skill for any Data Scientist.
Epidemiologist
An Epidemiologist studies the distribution and causes of diseases and other health problems in a population. The data analysis and surveillance methods that you will learn in the Data Use for Disease Control & Global Health Decision-Making course can help you succeed in this role. With your new knowledge from this course, you will be able to conduct epidemiological surveillance to inform decision-making and collect and analyze healthcare data in your role as an Epidemiologist.
Biostatistician
A Biostatistician applies statistical methods to solve problems in medicine and public health. As a Biostatistician, you will need to be able to effectively manage and analyze large datasets and you will learn how to do just that in the Data Use for Disease Control & Global Health Decision-Making course. This course will help you build a foundation in data analysis that will be essential for your success in this role.

Reading list

We've selected five books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Data Use for Disease Control & Global Health Decision-Making.
Provides a comprehensive overview of vaccines and vaccination, and would be a valuable resource for students and professionals alike.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the poliovirus, and would be of interest to students and professionals alike.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the use of data science in epidemiology. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the principles and practices of using data to improve public health.
Provides a vision for the future of public health, based on the latest scientific evidence and trends. It valuable resource for anyone interested in the challenges and opportunities facing public health in the 21st century.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the evidence on health systems strengthening in developing countries. It valuable resource for anyone interested in the design and implementation of effective health systems.

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