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Introduction to Participatory Approaches in Public Health

Helen Ward

This course will introduce you to participatory approaches to public health. You will learn about the history of participatory health research and why it is essential to solving contemporary public health challenges. The course will help you to understand the social and cultural context of public health, before introducing you to essential concepts for working with communities: knowledge and power. Finally, you will engage with critical analyses of participatory approaches, to help you to determine if and when such strategies are appropriate. Throughout the course you will analyse real-world case studies of community-based health projects, including historical HIV social movements, public health projects with sex workers, and participatory approaches to the COVID-19 pandemic. The course will equip you to practice public health in partnership with local communities. It is followed by a second course, Applying Participatory Approaches in Public Health Settings, which builds upon the theoretical foundations of this introductory course.

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Syllabus

An Introduction to Participatory Approaches in Public Health
This week you will be introduced to participatory approaches to public health. What are they? Where do they come from? And why are they essential to solving contemporary public health challenges? Firstly, you will meet the team and get an idea of how this course is structured. We also want you to share your own experiences with other learners - in this way, you'll identify what you already know about participatory approaches, share useful insights and make connections with one another. In Lesson 1 you'll learn the key principles and characteristics of a participatory approach and learn about the history of participation in HIV social movements. In Lesson 2, you'll focus on the case study of Ebola, to explore how participatory approaches can be used in pandemics. Take note - we'll be returning to this discussion in Week 4 to see what lessons from Ebola can be applied to COVID-19.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores participatory approaches to public health, which is critical for professionals in the field
Led by experts in the field of participatory public health, Helen Ward
Examines real-world case studies to make the learning experience more practical and engaging
Covers essential concepts in participatory approaches, such as knowledge, power, and action
Provides foundational knowledge for beginners in the field of participatory public health
Could be enhanced with more hands-on exercises and activities to reinforce learning

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Reviews summary

Foundational participatory public health approaches

According to students, this course offers a comprehensive and highly relevant introduction to participatory approaches in public health. Learners highlight the course's ability to provide a strong theoretical foundation while grounding concepts in compelling real-world case studies, including historical social movements and contemporary challenges like COVID-19. The lectures are described as clear and engaging, and the readings are well-curated. While some learners expressed a desire for more hands-on practical exercises, the course is broadly seen as essential for critical thinking about community partnership. The focus on knowledge, power, and social context is particularly appreciated.
Successfully bridges theoretical concepts with real-world application, though some seek more practical tools.
"While very solid, I would have liked perhaps one more practical exercise or template for immediate use in the field."
"I gained a robust theoretical framework while also grounding it in compelling real-world examples, balancing theory and practice well."
"Sometimes felt a bit too theoretical for my immediate practical needs, but still a decent starting point for understanding participatory approaches."
Content remains current, addressing contemporary public health issues.
"The updated content, particularly the discussion on COVID-19, made this course incredibly current and relevant to today's challenges."
"This course continues to be essential for anyone working in public health who aims for true community partnership, staying relevant over time."
"I appreciated the emphasis on the social and cultural context of health, which is so crucial in current public health practice."
Material is presented clearly by expert instructors.
"The lectures were clear and engaging, and the readings were well-curated, making complex topics easy to grasp."
"The instructors were clearly experts in the field and conveyed the material with passion and clarity."
"It challenged my preconceived notions about 'participation' and highlighted its complexities in a very understandable way."
Provides a robust theoretical framework for participatory health.
"This course provided me with an excellent foundational understanding of participatory approaches and equipped me to think critically."
"I particularly appreciated the focus on power dynamics and ethical considerations in community engagement. The theoretical depth was excellent."
"The course does a great job at explaining complex theoretical concepts like knowledge creation and positionality in an accessible way."
Uses diverse and highly relevant real-world examples.
"The case studies, especially the COVID-19 application, were highly relevant and helped contextualize the theory effectively."
"The way the course connected historical movements like HIV activism to modern challenges like Ebola and COVID-19 was incredibly insightful."
"I found the in-depth case study of participatory projects with sex workers particularly enlightening and impactful."

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 Introduction to Participatory Approaches in Public Health with these activities:
Review fundamental concepts in social and cultural anthropology
Refreshing your knowledge in social and cultural anthropology will strengthen your understanding of the social and cultural factors that influence health and well-being.
Show steps
  • Review key concepts and theories in social and cultural anthropology
  • Consider how these concepts apply to the field of public health
Review Participation and Power in Health
Refreshes your understanding of the relationship between participation and power in health, which is a key concept in this course.
Browse courses on Power
Show steps
  • Review the readings on participation and power from previous coursework or resources.
  • Take practice quizzes or complete exercises to test your understanding.
Review statistics
Refreshes your statistics skills before taking this course by reviewing foundational concepts such as descriptive and inferential statistics.
Browse courses on Statistics
Show steps
  • Review probability theory.
  • Review hypothesis testing.
  • Review descriptive statistics.
14 other activities
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Show all 17 activities
Review basic principles of public health
Review basic concepts and vocabulary of public health such as population health, health equity, and disease prevention.
Browse courses on Public Health
Show steps
  • Review the history and evolution of public health.
  • Review the core functions of public health.
  • Review the major public health challenges facing the world today.
Volunteer with Local Health Organizations
Offers practical experience in applying participatory approaches to health promotion and disease prevention.
Browse courses on Public Health
Show steps
  • Identify local health organizations that use participatory approaches.
  • Contact the organizations and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
  • Participate in community outreach programs, health education campaigns, or other activities that engage community members in health initiatives.
Explore case studies of participatory health research projects
Examining real-world examples of participatory health research projects will provide practical insights into how these approaches are implemented.
Browse courses on Public Health
Show steps
  • Identify case studies of participatory health research projects through online databases or research articles
  • Read and analyze the case studies, focusing on the methods used and the outcomes achieved
  • Consider the strengths and limitations of the participatory approaches used in each case study
Participatory Health Research Project Proposal
Develops your skills in designing and planning a participatory health research project, which is the focus of the course.
Browse courses on Participatory Research
Show steps
  • Identify a health issue that you are interested in researching.
  • Develop a research question and hypothesis.
  • Design a research plan that includes methods for engaging community members in the research process.
Practice applying social and behavioral theories to public health
Engage in exercises and simulations that apply concepts from social and behavioral theories to develop public health interventions.
Browse courses on Social Determinants of Health
Show steps
  • Apply the PRECEDE-PROCEED model to a public health problem.
  • Apply the social ecological model to a public health problem.
  • Design a health promotion intervention based on the principles of behavior change.
Engage in discussions with peers on the ethical considerations of participatory approaches
Discussing ethical considerations with peers will enhance your understanding of the responsibilities involved in participatory public health work.
Browse courses on Participatory Approaches
Show steps
  • Identify ethical issues related to participatory approaches, such as power dynamics and informed consent
  • Organize a discussion group or join an online forum to share perspectives on these ethical considerations
  • Reflect on the discussions and consider how ethical principles can be integrated into participatory practices
Volunteer with a community health organization
Gain practical experience in participatory public health by volunteering with a community health organization.
Browse courses on Community Health
Show steps
  • Find a community health organization that aligns with your interests.
  • Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
  • Commit to a regular volunteer schedule.
Participatory Approaches to Public Health Case Study Analysis
Reinforces your understanding of participatory approaches to public health through analysis of real-world case studies.
Browse courses on Participatory Approaches
Show steps
  • Select a case study of a participatory health project.
  • Analyze the case study, focusing on the principles and characteristics of participatory approaches.
  • Write a summary of your analysis, discussing the strengths and weaknesses of the participatory approach used in the case study.
Develop a Participatory Health Education Campaign
Applies your knowledge of participatory approaches to the design and development of a health education campaign.
Browse courses on Public Health
Show steps
  • Identify a specific health issue and target audience.
  • Develop a campaign message and materials that are culturally appropriate and accessible.
  • Involve community members in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of the campaign.
Explore case studies of participatory public health projects
Watch video documentaries and engage in guided discussions of real-world examples of participatory public health projects.
Show steps
  • Watch a documentary on the Participatory Research Network (PRN).
  • Read a case study of a community-based participatory research project.
  • Participate in an online discussion forum on the strengths and challenges of participatory public health.
Organize a symposium on participatory approaches in your community
Organizing a symposium will allow you to apply the knowledge you've gained in this course and engage with your community on the importance of participatory approaches in public health.
Browse courses on Participatory Approaches
Show steps
  • Identify a local organization or group to partner with
  • Develop a proposal outlining the goals and objectives of the symposium
  • Secure funding and resources for the symposium
  • Invite speakers and panelists who have expertise in participatory approaches
  • Promote the symposium to the community and encourage participation
Develop a toolkit for community members on how to participate effectively in health research
Creating a toolkit specifically tailored to your community will empower individuals to actively participate in shaping health research initiatives.
Browse courses on Public Health
Show steps
  • Identify the specific needs and interests of your community
  • Gather information on best practices for community participation in health research
  • Develop the toolkit, including resources, guidance, and practical tools
  • Disseminate the toolkit to community organizations and individuals
Support emerging public health practitioners by mentoring them on participatory approaches
Mentoring others will solidify your understanding of participatory approaches and contribute to the development of the next generation of public health professionals.
Browse courses on Participatory Approaches
Show steps
  • Identify opportunities to mentor emerging public health practitioners
  • Share your knowledge and experiences on participatory approaches
  • Provide guidance and support as they implement participatory strategies in their own work
Develop a participatory public health project proposal
Design and propose a participatory public health project that addresses a real-world health issue.
Show steps
  • Identify a public health problem in your community.
  • Develop a plan for engaging community members in the design and implementation of a participatory public health project.
  • Write a project proposal that includes a budget and timeline.

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Participatory Approaches in Public Health will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Health Equity Researcher
Health Equity Researchers study the causes of health disparities and develop strategies to eliminate them. They may work in government agencies, research institutions, or non-profit organizations. The Introduction to Participatory Approaches in Public Health course will help you develop the skills you need to conduct health equity research and advocate for policies that improve the health of marginalized communities.
See salaries and explore the career path for Health Equity Researcher
Community Health Worker
Community Health Workers provide health care and support services to people in their communities. They may work with individuals, families, or groups to address a variety of health issues. The Introduction to Participatory Approaches in Public Health course will help you develop the skills you need to work effectively with communities and address their health needs.
See salaries and explore the career path for Community Health Worker
Public Health Researcher
As a Public Health Researcher, you will be responsible for conducting research on the health of the public. This may involve studying the causes of disease, evaluating the effectiveness of public health programs, or developing new ways to improve the health of communities. The Introduction to Participatory Approaches in Public Health course will help you build a foundation in the principles of participatory public health, which can assist you as you work with communities to identify and address public health issues.
See salaries and explore the career path for Public Health Researcher
Community Organizer
Community Organizers work with communities to identify and address their needs. They may work on a variety of issues, including health care, education, and housing. The Introduction to Participatory Approaches in Public Health course will help you develop the skills you need to work effectively with communities and empower them to take action to improve their health.
See salaries and explore the career path for Community Organizer
Public Health Nurse
Public Health Nurses provide health care and support services to communities. They may work in schools, community centers, or hospitals. The Introduction to Participatory Approaches in Public Health course will help you develop the skills you need to work effectively with communities and address their health needs.
See salaries and explore the career path for Public Health Nurse
Health Educator
Health Educators teach people about health and provide information on how to improve their health. They may work in schools, community centers, or hospitals. The Introduction to Participatory Approaches in Public Health course will help you develop the skills you need to effectively engage with communities and promote healthy behaviors.
See salaries and explore the career path for Health Educator
Social Worker
Social Workers help people to cope with difficult life circumstances and improve their overall well-being. They may work with individuals, families, or groups to address a variety of issues, including mental health, substance abuse, and poverty. The Introduction to Participatory Approaches in Public Health course will help you develop the skills you need to work effectively with communities and address the social determinants of health.
See salaries and explore the career path for Social Worker
Global Health Specialist
Global Health Specialists work to improve the health of people around the world. They may work in government agencies, non-profit organizations, or the private sector. The Introduction to Participatory Approaches in Public Health course will help you develop the skills you need to work effectively in a global health context and address the health needs of underserved populations.
See salaries and explore the career path for Global Health Specialist
Health Communications Specialist
Health Communications Specialists develop and implement communication campaigns to promote healthy behaviors and improve public health. They may work in government agencies, non-profit organizations, or the private sector. The Introduction to Participatory Approaches in Public Health course will help you develop the skills you need to create effective health communication materials and engage with communities.
See salaries and explore the career path for Health Communications Specialist
Nonprofit Manager
Nonprofit Managers oversee the operations of nonprofit organizations. They may work in a variety of settings, including health care, education, and social services. The Introduction to Participatory Approaches in Public Health course will help you develop the skills you need to manage a nonprofit organization and achieve its mission of improving the health of communities.
See salaries and explore the career path for Nonprofit Manager
Epidemiologist
Epidemiologists investigate the causes of disease and develop strategies to prevent and control outbreaks. They may work in government agencies, research institutions, or non-profit organizations. The Introduction to Participatory Approaches in Public Health course will help you develop the skills you need to conduct epidemiological research and develop effective public health interventions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Epidemiologist
Health Policy Analyst
Health Policy Analysts develop and evaluate policies that affect the health of the public. They may work in government agencies, research institutions, or non-profit organizations. The Introduction to Participatory Approaches in Public Health course will help you develop the skills you need to understand the political process and advocate for policies that improve the health of communities.
See salaries and explore the career path for Health Policy Analyst
Environmental Health Scientist
Environmental Health Scientists study the relationship between the environment and human health. They may work in government agencies, research institutions, or the private sector. The Introduction to Participatory Approaches in Public Health course will help you develop the skills you need to understand the environmental determinants of health and develop interventions to protect the public from environmental hazards.
See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Health Scientist
Health Economist
Health Economists study the cost and value of health care. They may work in government agencies, research institutions, or the private sector. The Introduction to Participatory Approaches in Public Health course will help you develop the skills you need to understand the economic determinants of health and develop policies that improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the health care system.
See salaries and explore the career path for Health Economist
Health Informatics Specialist
Health Informatics Specialists use information technology to improve the health of the public. They may work in government agencies, research institutions, or the private sector. The Introduction to Participatory Approaches in Public Health course may be useful as you work to develop and implement health information systems and use data to improve public health.
See salaries and explore the career path for Health Informatics Specialist

Reading list

We've selected nine 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 Introduction to Participatory Approaches in Public Health .
Cover image
Violence and the Labor Movement
Save
Explores the concept of power in participatory development, and provides a critical analysis of participatory approaches.
Violence and the Labor Movement
Paperback
Check
Violence and the Labor Movement
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Strategies of Qualitative Inquiry
Save
Provides an overview of participatory methods in research and evaluation.
Strategies of Qualitative Inquiry
Paperback
Check
Strategies of Qualitative Inquiry
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Utilization-Focused Evaluation
Save
Provides a practical guide to participatory monitoring and evaluation.
Utilization-Focused Evaluation
Paperback
$$$$
Utilization-Focused Evaluation
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Teaching and Learning with Technologies in the...
Save
Provides a practical guide to participatory development.
Teaching and Learning with Technologies in the...
Paperback
Check
Teaching and Learning with Technologies in the...
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Rhetoric in Human Rights Advocacy
Save
This classic work provides a comprehensive overview of participatory development, offering insights into the principles and practices of involving local communities in development processes. It provides a valuable foundation for understanding the role of participation in public health.
Rhetoric in Human Rights Advocacy: A Study of...
Hardcover
$$$
Rhetoric in Human Rights Advocacy: A Study of...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
The Age of Entrepreneurship
Save
Provides a critical analysis of participatory development. It valuable resource for those interested in learning more about the challenges and limitations of participatory approaches.
The Age of Entrepreneurship: Business Proprietors,...
Paperback
$$$
The Age of Entrepreneurship: Business Proprietors,...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Into the Unknown
Save
Provides a critical analysis of the relationship between power, knowledge, and participatory development. It valuable resource for those interested in learning more about the challenges and limitations of participatory approaches.
Into the Unknown
Paperback
Check
Into the Unknown
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Disability, Intersectionality, and Belonging in...
Save
Provides an overview of the role of participation and empowerment in health promotion. It valuable resource for those interested in learning more about the challenges and limitations of participatory approaches.
Disability, Intersectionality, and Belonging in...
Paperback
$$
Disability, Intersectionality, and Belonging in...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Verses, Voices, & Visions of Vallejo
Save
Explores the participatory turn in the museum field, offering insights into the challenges and opportunities of involving visitors in the creation and interpretation of museum exhibitions. It provides a broader perspective on the relevance of participatory approaches in public health.
Verses, Voices, & Visions of Vallejo: A Poetry...
Paperback
$$

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Course image
Effort
18 hours to complete
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
Imperial College London
Instructor
Helen Ward
Language
English
Transcripts
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This course belongs to a collection called Participatory Approaches in Public Health. It's comprised of three courses:
  1. Introduction to Participatory Approaches in Public Health (viewing)
  2. Public Involvement in Research
  3. Applying Participatory Approaches in Public Health Settings
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores participatory approaches to public health, which is critical for professionals in the field
Led by experts in the field of participatory public health, Helen Ward
Examines real-world case studies to make the learning experience more practical and engaging
Covers essential concepts in participatory approaches, such as knowledge, power, and action
Provides foundational knowledge for beginners in the field of participatory public health
Could be enhanced with more hands-on exercises and activities to reinforce learning
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