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Daniel J. Pesut, Ph.D., RN, FAAN
and
Karen A. Monsen, PhD, RN, FAMIA, FNAP, FAAN
This first of five courses introduces students to the social determinants of health, and provides an overview of the definitions and theoretical perspectives that will form the foundation of this specialization. The topics of this course include:
1. Introduction to the Social Determinants of Health
2. Theoretical Perspectives and Knowledge Complexity
3. Data Driven Collective Impact
4. Minority Stress Theory
5. Data Applications: Frequency Analysis and Bar Chart Visualization
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
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What's inside
Syllabus
Introduction to Social Determinants of Health
The purpose of this module is to provide an introduction to the social determinants of health in the context of this specialization. In lesson one, we will define the social determinants of health, explore how our understanding of social determinants has changed over time, and analyze the impact health inequity has on society. We will also consider the variety of transformational ideas that can be used to address health inequities. In lesson two, we will review different ways of knowing and how community knowledge can be augmented with data to influence policy. We will also evaluate defining characteristics of data, as we assess how data, analysis and partnership can be leveraged to create power for transformative change.
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Syllabus
Introduction to Social Determinants of Health
The purpose of this module is to provide an introduction to the social determinants of health in the context of this specialization. In lesson one, we will define the social determinants of health, explore how our understanding of social determinants has changed over time, and analyze the impact health inequity has on society. We will also consider the variety of transformational ideas that can be used to address health inequities. In lesson two, we will review different ways of knowing and how community knowledge can be augmented with data to influence policy. We will also evaluate defining characteristics of data, as we assess how data, analysis and partnership can be leveraged to create power for transformative change.
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Introduces foundational understandings, methods, and tools in health equity and social determinants of health
Taught by internationally recognized experts in advanced practice nursing, Karen Monsen, PhD, RN, FAMIA, FNAP, FAAN, and Daniel J. Pesut, PhD, RN, FAAN
Offers a nuanced understanding social determinants of health and health inequities for real-world application
Provides an understanding of social determinants of health and addresses the social and political contexts of health equity
Requires students to engage with real-world data from NHANES and the Omaha System, fostering data literacy and evidence-based decision-making
Examines social determinants of health through the lens of Minority Stress Theory, highlighting the impact of discrimination and systemic barriers on health outcomes
Teaches data applications, including frequency analysis and bar chart visualization, for analyzing and interpreting social determinants of health data
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Reviews summary
Foundational course on social health determinants
According to learners, this course offers a clear and comprehensive introduction to the social determinants of health, lauded for its highly relevant theoretical perspectives such as DSRP and Minority Stress Theory. Students found the content well-structured and the instructors knowledgeable. A major strength is the practical data application module, utilizing R with real-world datasets like NHANES and Omaha System, making concepts actionable. While largely positive, some noted the R section could benefit from more beginner-level support, and the data analysis might be too basic for those with advanced statistical backgrounds. A few also desired more concrete examples in theoretical modules and more interactive assignments. Overall, it's considered a must-take for public health and social science professionals.
Mix of conceptual learning with a desire for more concrete examples.
"I felt some parts were a bit too conceptual without enough concrete examples or case studies to illustrate the points..."
"I wish there were more interactive assignments beyond just the data exercises."
"It's a decent intro, but I'd look for something more application-heavy next time."
Data analysis section suitable for beginners but basic for advanced users.
"My only minor critique is that the R section, while useful, could have included a bit more introductory material for absolute beginners."
"As someone with a strong background in statistics, I found the data analysis part a bit too basic and wished for more advanced techniques."
"I think the data applications part was great for those new to R, but I was looking for more advanced statistical methods."
Organized and current information important for professionals.
"The content felt very up-to-date and relevant. I learned a lot."
"The course is well-structured and covers important ground."
"The instructors made complex theories accessible, and the practical R exercises for frequency analysis were invaluable."
Offers valuable hands-on experience with R and real datasets.
"The R application module was a fantastic hands-on experience, making the data visualization concepts very practical."
"The blend of theoretical concepts with practical data application using NHANES and Omaha System was well-executed."
"I found the module on Data Applications really helpful for seeing how these theories translate into real-world analysis."
Provides a strong grasp of core theories.
"This course provided an incredibly clear and comprehensive introduction to the social determinants of health. The theoretical perspectives... were explained thoroughly and are highly relevant."
"Excellent course! It really clarified how systemic discrimination leads to health disparities, which is critical for my work."
"Super insightful! The focus on both theoretical models (like the Data to Action Hourglass) and their practical implications... was a major strength."
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 Social Determinants of Health with these
activities:
Review Social determinants of health
Show steps
This activity will help you prepare for this course by giving you a deeper understanding of Social determinants of health.
Browse courses on
Social Determinants of Health
Show steps
-
Read the Wikipedia page on social determinants of health
-
Read the WHO page on social determinants of health
-
Watch a YouTube video on social determinants of health
Create a mind map of the social determinants of health
Show steps
This activity will help you understand the relationships between the different social determinants of health.
Browse courses on
Social Determinants of Health
Show steps
-
Use a mind mapping tool to create a map of the social determinants of health
-
Add branches to the map for each of the different social determinants of health
-
Add sub-branches to the map for each of the different factors that contribute to each social determinant of health
Discuss the social determinants of health with a peer
Show steps
This activity will help you learn from your peers and gain a deeper understanding of the social determinants of health.
Browse courses on
Social Determinants of Health
Show steps
-
Find a peer who is also taking this course
-
Meet with your peer to discuss the social determinants of health
-
Share your thoughts and ideas with your peer
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Practice identifying the social determinants of health
Show steps
This activity will help you improve your ability to identify the social determinants of health in real-world situations.
Browse courses on
Social Determinants of Health
Show steps
-
Find a case study or news article that discusses a health issue
-
Identify the different social determinants of health that are contributing to the health issue
-
Discuss your findings with a peer or instructor
Develop a plan to address a social determinant of health in your community
Show steps
This activity will help you apply your knowledge of the social determinants of health to a real-world problem.
Browse courses on
Social Determinants of Health
Show steps
-
Identify a social determinant of health that you would like to address in your community
-
Research the social determinant of health and its impact on your community
-
Develop a plan to address the social determinant of health in your community
-
Implement your plan
-
Evaluate the impact of your plan
Attend a workshop on the social determinants of health
Show steps
This activity will help you learn from experts and gain a deeper understanding of the social determinants of health.
Browse courses on
Social Determinants of Health
Show steps
-
Find a workshop on the social determinants of health
-
Register for the workshop
-
Attend the workshop
Participate in a contest or competition on the social determinants of health
Show steps
This activity will help you test your knowledge of the social determinants of health and challenge yourself to come up with new and innovative solutions to health issues.
Browse courses on
Social Determinants of Health
Show steps
-
Find a contest or competition on the social determinants of health
-
Register for the contest or competition
-
Develop your entry
-
Submit your entry
Create a compilation of resources on the social determinants of health
Show steps
This activity will help you learn about a variety of resources that can help you to understand and address the social determinants of health.
Browse courses on
Social Determinants of Health
Show steps
-
Search for resources on the social determinants of health
-
Organize the resources into a compilation
-
Share the compilation with your peers and instructors
Review Social determinants of health
Show steps
This activity will help you prepare for this course by giving you a deeper understanding of Social determinants of health.
Browse courses on
Social Determinants of Health
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the Wikipedia page on social determinants of health
- Read the WHO page on social determinants of health
- Watch a YouTube video on social determinants of health
Create a mind map of the social determinants of health
Show steps
This activity will help you understand the relationships between the different social determinants of health.
Browse courses on
Social Determinants of Health
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Use a mind mapping tool to create a map of the social determinants of health
- Add branches to the map for each of the different social determinants of health
- Add sub-branches to the map for each of the different factors that contribute to each social determinant of health
Discuss the social determinants of health with a peer
Show steps
This activity will help you learn from your peers and gain a deeper understanding of the social determinants of health.
Browse courses on
Social Determinants of Health
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a peer who is also taking this course
- Meet with your peer to discuss the social determinants of health
- Share your thoughts and ideas with your peer
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Practice identifying the social determinants of health
Show steps
This activity will help you improve your ability to identify the social determinants of health in real-world situations.
Browse courses on
Social Determinants of Health
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a case study or news article that discusses a health issue
- Identify the different social determinants of health that are contributing to the health issue
- Discuss your findings with a peer or instructor
Develop a plan to address a social determinant of health in your community
Show steps
This activity will help you apply your knowledge of the social determinants of health to a real-world problem.
Browse courses on
Social Determinants of Health
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a social determinant of health that you would like to address in your community
- Research the social determinant of health and its impact on your community
- Develop a plan to address the social determinant of health in your community
- Implement your plan
- Evaluate the impact of your plan
Attend a workshop on the social determinants of health
Show steps
This activity will help you learn from experts and gain a deeper understanding of the social determinants of health.
Browse courses on
Social Determinants of Health
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a workshop on the social determinants of health
- Register for the workshop
- Attend the workshop
Participate in a contest or competition on the social determinants of health
Show steps
This activity will help you test your knowledge of the social determinants of health and challenge yourself to come up with new and innovative solutions to health issues.
Browse courses on
Social Determinants of Health
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a contest or competition on the social determinants of health
- Register for the contest or competition
- Develop your entry
- Submit your entry
Create a compilation of resources on the social determinants of health
Show steps
This activity will help you learn about a variety of resources that can help you to understand and address the social determinants of health.
Browse courses on
Social Determinants of Health
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search for resources on the social determinants of health
- Organize the resources into a compilation
- Share the compilation with your peers and instructors
Career center
Learners who complete Introduction to Social Determinants of Health will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Health Equity Advocate
Health Equity Advocate
Health Equity Advocates work to eliminate health disparities and promote health equity for all. They work with a variety of organizations, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and community groups. This course may be useful for Health Equity Advocates as it provides a foundation in the social determinants of health. By understanding the social determinants of health, Health Equity Advocates can better advocate for policies and programs that address the root causes of health inequities.
Health Economist
Health Economist
Health Economists study the economic aspects of health care. They use a variety of economic models and techniques to analyze the costs and benefits of health care interventions. This course may be useful for Health Economists as it provides a foundation in the social determinants of health. By understanding the social determinants of health, Health Economists can better understand the social factors that influence the demand for and supply of health care.
Epidemiologist
Epidemiologist
Epidemiologists investigate the causes and distribution of diseases and other health conditions in populations. They use a variety of methods, including data analysis, surveys, and field studies. This course may be useful for Epidemiologists as it provides a foundation in the social determinants of health. By understanding the social determinants of health, Epidemiologists can better identify and address the root causes of health inequities.
Health Data Analyst
Health Data Analyst
Health Data Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret health data. They use a variety of statistical and data analysis techniques to identify trends and patterns in health data. This course may be useful for Health Data Analysts as it provides a foundation in the social determinants of health. By understanding the social determinants of health, Health Data Analysts can better understand the social factors that influence health outcomes.
Public Health Educator
Public Health Educator
Public Health Educators develop and implement educational programs to promote health and prevent disease. They work in a variety of settings, including schools, community health centers, and government agencies. This course may be useful for Public Health Educators as it provides a comprehensive overview of the social determinants of health, including definitions, theoretical perspectives, and data applications. By understanding the social determinants of health, Public Health Educators can better design and implement programs that address the root causes of health inequities.
Health Policy Analyst
Health Policy Analyst
Health Policy Analysts conduct research and analysis to inform health policy decisions. They work for a variety of organizations, including government agencies, think tanks, and non-profit organizations. This course may be useful for Health Policy Analysts as it provides a foundation in the social determinants of health. By understanding the social determinants of health, Health Policy Analysts can better design and implement policies that address the root causes of health inequities.
Health Insurance Underwriter
Health Insurance Underwriter
Health Insurance Underwriters assess the risk of insuring individuals and groups for health insurance. They use a variety of factors to determine the likelihood that an individual or group will file a claim, including age, health status, and lifestyle. This course may be useful for Health Insurance Underwriters as it provides a foundation in the social determinants of health. By understanding the social determinants of health, Health Insurance Underwriters can better understand the social factors that influence health risk.
Community Health Worker
Community Health Worker
Community Health Workers provide health education and support to individuals and families in their communities. They work in a variety of settings, such as schools, clinics, and community centers. This course may be useful for Community Health Workers as it provides a comprehensive overview of the social determinants of health, including definitions, theoretical perspectives, and data applications. By understanding the social determinants of health, Community Health Workers can better address the root causes of health inequities and improve the health of their communities.
Health Services Researcher
Health Services Researcher
Health Services Researchers study the organization, financing, and delivery of health care services. They use a variety of methods, including data analysis, surveys, and qualitative research. This course may be useful for Health Services Researchers as it provides a foundation in the social determinants of health. By understanding the social determinants of health, Health Services Researchers can better understand the social factors that influence access to and quality of health care.
Healthcare Administrator
Healthcare Administrator
Healthcare Administrators plan, organize, and direct the operations of health care organizations. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes. This course may be useful for Healthcare Administrators as it provides a foundation in the social determinants of health. By understanding the social determinants of health, Healthcare Administrators can better understand the social factors that influence the health of their patients and communities.
Public Health Nurse
Public Health Nurse
Public Health Nurses work to protect and improve the health of communities. They provide a variety of services, including health screenings, vaccinations, and education. Public Health Nurses may work in a variety of settings, such as schools, clinics, and community health centers. This course may be useful for Public Health Nurses as it provides a comprehensive overview of the social determinants of health, including definitions, theoretical perspectives, and data applications. By understanding the social determinants of health, Public Health Nurses can better address the root causes of health inequities and improve the health of their communities.
Demographer
Demographer
Demographers study population trends and patterns. They use a variety of methods, including data analysis, surveys, and projections. This course may be useful for Demographers as it provides a foundation in the social determinants of health. By understanding the social determinants of health, Demographers can better understand the social factors that influence population health and well-being.
Sociologist
Sociologist
Sociologists study human society and social behavior. They use a variety of methods, including surveys, interviews, and observations. This course may be useful for Sociologists as it provides a foundation in the social determinants of health. By understanding the social determinants of health, Sociologists can better understand the social factors that influence health and well-being.
Social Worker
Social Worker
Social Workers help people navigate complex social systems, such as healthcare, education, and housing. They work with individuals, families, groups, and communities to address a wide range of issues, including poverty, mental illness, and addiction. This course may be useful for Social Workers as it provides a foundation in the social determinants of health. By understanding the social determinants of health, Social Workers can better advocate for their clients and help them overcome the challenges they face.
Health Educator
Health Educator
Health Educators use a variety of media to educate the public, communities, and specific populations about health issues. They develop, implement, and evaluate health education programs. This course may be useful for Health Educators as it provides a comprehensive overview of the social determinants of health, including definitions, theoretical perspectives, and data applications. By understanding the social determinants of health, Health Educators can better design and implement programs that address the root causes of health inequities.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/ji9yoc/introduction
Reading list
We've selected ten 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 Social Determinants of Health.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the social determinants of health, with a focus on the role of the health care system. It could serve as a foundational text for the course.
Provides a multidisciplinary perspective on the social determinants of health.
This report provides a comprehensive overview of the evidence on social determinants of health and their policy implications.
This manual provides detailed instructions for analyzing data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of health impact assessment.
Save
Comprehensive reference for the R programming language.
Save
Provides a practical introduction to data visualization techniques.
Provides an overview of critical race theory, which key concept in the course. It could be useful for students who want to learn more about how critical race theory can be used to understand the social determinants of health.
Save
Provides an overview of intersectionality, which key concept in the course. It could be useful for students who want to learn more about how intersectionality can be used to understand the social determinants of health.
Provides a comprehensive overview of public health. It could be useful for students who want to learn more about the history of public health and its role in the social determinants of health.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/ji9yoc/introduction
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Similar courses
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Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Minnesota
Instructors
Daniel J. Pesut, Ph.D., RN, FAAN
Karen A. Monsen, PhD, RN, FAMIA, FNAP, FAAN
Language
English
This course belongs to a
collection
called
Social Determinants of Health: Data to Action. It's comprised of five courses:
- Social Determinants of Health: Planetary Health
- Social Determinants of Health: Methodological Opportunities
- Social Determinants of Health: Vulnerable Populations
- Social Determinants of Health: Health Care Systems
- Introduction to Social Determinants of Health (viewing)
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