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Daniel J. Pesut, Ph.D., RN, FAAN
and
Karen A. Monsen, PhD, RN, FAMIA, FNAP, FAAN
This fifth and final course is centered on planetary health as a fundamental health determinant. As we consider how the health of humans is dependent on the health of Earth’s natural systems, we will also explore how to apply futures thinking and foresight principles to planetary health initiatives. The topics of this course include:
1. Introduction to Planetary Health
2. Values and Sources of Knowledge
3. Action and Movement Building
4. Foresight
5. Data Applications: Regression Analysis and Scatter Plot Visualization
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/ouygqv/social
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What's inside
Syllabus
Introduction to Planetary Health
The field of planetary health is based on the idea that the health of humans is dependent on the health of Earth’s natural systems. This module introduces the concept of planetary health and explains how it can be used as a framework for understanding other social determinants of health. The first lesson provides an overview of planetary health as a discipline, paradigm and movement. Lesson two explores the Indigenous origins of planetary health, and how the Great Acceleration has rapidly increased anthropogenic changes to the environment. Finally, in lesson three, we examine how planetary health addresses environmental determinants of health.
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Syllabus
Introduction to Planetary Health
The field of planetary health is based on the idea that the health of humans is dependent on the health of Earth’s natural systems. This module introduces the concept of planetary health and explains how it can be used as a framework for understanding other social determinants of health. The first lesson provides an overview of planetary health as a discipline, paradigm and movement. Lesson two explores the Indigenous origins of planetary health, and how the Great Acceleration has rapidly increased anthropogenic changes to the environment. Finally, in lesson three, we examine how planetary health addresses environmental determinants of health.
Read more
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what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Examines important topics related to climate change, planetary health, and health disparities, which is highly relevant to contemporary issues
Taught by experts in both nursing and environmental health, who are recognized for their work in the field
Develops essential knowledge and skills for those working in public health and sustainability
Provides foundational knowledge for those new to the field of planetary health
Teaches methods for evaluating the health impacts of environmental factors
Requires extensive background knowledge in public health or environmental science for full comprehension
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Reviews summary
Planetary health: holistic perspectives & future action
According to students, this course offers a crucial and eye-opening perspective on health, masterfully linking planetary health with social determinants. Learners consistently praise the clarity of complex topics and the knowledgeable instructors. Many found the modules on movement building and foresight to be particularly insightful, providing actionable strategies. While the Data Applications module involving R is seen as a useful bonus by some, a notable portion of learners found it challenging for beginners or felt it required prior statistical knowledge, suggesting it might be less essential for those not focused on coding.
Offers unique perspectives and practical strategies for future initiatives.
"The foresight module was particularly insightful, offering practical tools for future planning."
"The focus on 'The Great Transition' and movement building felt very empowering."
"I found the 'Foresight' module to be a unique and valuable addition, prompting a new way of thinking."
Instructors present complex concepts with clarity and expertise.
"The instructors presented complex topics with such clarity, making it accessible."
"The instructors explained complex topics clearly."
"The lectures are clear and engaging. The instructors are knowledgeable."
Addresses crucial and current global health and environmental issues.
"An excellent and timely course. I appreciated how it delved into indigenous perspectives..."
"Very relevant course for understanding the interconnectedness of health and environment."
"Timely and important subject matter... The overall message is very important for today's world."
Provides a crucial, interconnected understanding of health.
"This course was truly eye-opening! It masterfully connects planetary health with social determinants, a critical perspective..."
"Absolutely crucial knowledge for anyone. This course really shifts your perspective on health."
"This course is a must for anyone wanting to understand holistic health. The depth of content is impressive, and the connections drawn are profound."
The R module is a challenge for beginners and may require supplements.
"The R programming part was challenging for me as a complete beginner, and I had to supplement with outside resources."
"The last module on R programming felt completely out of place for me. I enrolled for the public health aspect, not for coding."
"The data analysis part in R was a bit of a steep learning curve if you're not familiar with coding. It felt a bit tacked on..."
"I understand its relevance, but perhaps a dedicated separate module or more beginner-friendly prep material would help."
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 Social Determinants of Health: Planetary Health with these
activities:
Compile Introductory Materials
Show steps
Having all of the mandatory materials ready before the course begins to prepare you for success.
Show steps
-
Gather course syllabus, textbooks, and other required materials.
-
Review syllabus to become familiar with course structure.
-
Read assigned chapters in textbooks.
Apply Statistical Regression Concepts
Show steps
Statistics knowledge and skill are essential tools for conducting health related research, and taking an active role in the practice of planetary health.
Browse courses on
Regression Analysis
Show steps
-
Review basic statistical concepts.
-
Practice solving regression problems.
-
Use statistical software to conduct regression analysis.
Create a Health Impact Assessment
Show steps
Simulation of real-world requirements to create a health impact assessment which is a required component of health policy and environmental health research.
Browse courses on
Health Impact Assessment
Show steps
-
Identify a health issue and its potential environmental causes.
-
Gather data on the health issue and environmental factors.
-
Analyze the data to identify the relationship between the health issue and environmental factors.
-
Develop recommendations to reduce or eliminate the health risks.
Two other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all five activities
Create a Sustainability Plan for Your Community
Show steps
Developing a plan for sustainability is a capstone project that will require you to use critical thinking and problem-solving skills to address complex environmental issues within health care.
Browse courses on
Sustainability
Show steps
-
Define stakeholders and engage them in a collaborative partnership.
-
Develop a baseline assessment of your community's sustainability.
-
Set goals to improve sustainability in your community.
-
Identify strategies and actions to achieve your sustainability goals.
-
Develop a monitoring and evaluation framework to track the progress of your sustainability plan.
Develop a Planetary Health Policy Brief
Show steps
By creating a policy brief, you will take on the role of health professionals who provide evidence-based policy solutions to complex problems.
Browse courses on
Planetary Health
Show steps
-
Identify a planetary health issue.
-
Research the issue in depth.
-
Examine the roles of health systems in promoting planetary health.
-
Analyze current policies and make recommendations for new or revised policies.
-
Write a policy brief.
Compile Introductory Materials
Show steps
Having all of the mandatory materials ready before the course begins to prepare you for success.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather course syllabus, textbooks, and other required materials.
- Review syllabus to become familiar with course structure.
- Read assigned chapters in textbooks.
Apply Statistical Regression Concepts
Show steps
Statistics knowledge and skill are essential tools for conducting health related research, and taking an active role in the practice of planetary health.
Browse courses on
Regression Analysis
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review basic statistical concepts.
- Practice solving regression problems.
- Use statistical software to conduct regression analysis.
Create a Health Impact Assessment
Show steps
Simulation of real-world requirements to create a health impact assessment which is a required component of health policy and environmental health research.
Browse courses on
Health Impact Assessment
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a health issue and its potential environmental causes.
- Gather data on the health issue and environmental factors.
- Analyze the data to identify the relationship between the health issue and environmental factors.
- Develop recommendations to reduce or eliminate the health risks.
Two other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all five activities
Create a Sustainability Plan for Your Community
Show steps
Developing a plan for sustainability is a capstone project that will require you to use critical thinking and problem-solving skills to address complex environmental issues within health care.
Browse courses on
Sustainability
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Define stakeholders and engage them in a collaborative partnership.
- Develop a baseline assessment of your community's sustainability.
- Set goals to improve sustainability in your community.
- Identify strategies and actions to achieve your sustainability goals.
- Develop a monitoring and evaluation framework to track the progress of your sustainability plan.
Develop a Planetary Health Policy Brief
Show steps
By creating a policy brief, you will take on the role of health professionals who provide evidence-based policy solutions to complex problems.
Browse courses on
Planetary Health
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a planetary health issue.
- Research the issue in depth.
- Examine the roles of health systems in promoting planetary health.
- Analyze current policies and make recommendations for new or revised policies.
- Write a policy brief.
Career center
Learners who complete Social Determinants of Health: Planetary Health will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Public Health Analyst
Public Health Analyst
A Public Health Analyst investigates and analyzes public health problems and develops programs to address them. Social Determinants of Health: Planetary Health would be a useful course for this role because it provides an overview of how social and environmental factors affect health.
Sustainability Scientist
Sustainability Scientist
A Sustainability Scientist researches and develops solutions to sustainability challenges. They work to create a more sustainable world for future generations. The Social Determinants of Health: Planetary Health would be helpful for a Sustainability Scientist because it provides an overview of the social and environmental factors that affect health. Additionally, the module on Foresight would be helpful for developing strategies to address future sustainability challenges.
Environmental Health Scientist
Environmental Health Scientist
An Environmental Health Scientist works to protect public and environmental health. They research, identify, evaluate, control, and oversee environmental hazards that may affect human and environmental health. The Social Determinants of Health: Planetary Health course could be helpful for one in this career role because it provides an introduction to planetary health and how it relates to human health. Additionally, the module on Data Applications: Regression Analysis and Scatter Plot Visualization would be helpful for analyzing and interpreting environmental health data.
Public Policy Analyst
Public Policy Analyst
A Public Policy Analyst researches, analyzes, and makes recommendations on public policy issues. They work to improve the lives of people and communities. The Social Determinants of Health: Planetary Health would be helpful for a Public Policy Analyst because it provides an overview of the social and environmental factors that affect health. Additionally, the module on Action and Movement Building would be helpful for developing strategies to influence public policy.
Environmental Engineer
Environmental Engineer
An Environmental Engineer designs and implements solutions to environmental problems. They work to protect the environment and human health. The Social Determinants of Health: Planetary Health would be helpful for an Environmental Engineer because it provides an overview of the social and environmental factors that can affect health. Additionally, the module on Data Applications: Regression Analysis and Scatter Plot Visualization would be helpful for analyzing and interpreting environmental data.
Climate Change Analyst
Climate Change Analyst
A Climate Change Analyst researches and analyzes the effects of climate change on human and environmental systems. They also develop and implement plans to mitigate and adapt to climate change. The Social Determinants of Health: Planetary Health would be helpful for a Climate Change Analyst because it provides an overview of the social and environmental factors that can affect health.
Health Educator
Health Educator
A Health Educator develops, implements, and evaluates health education programs and materials to promote healthy behaviors and prevent disease. The Social Determinants of Health: Planetary Health would be helpful for a Health Educator because it provides an overview of the social and environmental factors that can affect health.
International Development Specialist
International Development Specialist
An International Development Specialist works to improve the lives of people in developing countries. They work on a variety of issues, including health, education, and economic development. The Social Determinants of Health: Planetary Health would be helpful for an International Development Specialist because it provides an overview of the social and environmental factors that affect health in developing countries.
Urban Planner
Urban Planner
An Urban Planner designs and manages the physical development of cities and towns. They work to create sustainable and livable communities. The Social Determinants of Health: Planetary Health course would be useful for an Urban Planner because it provides an overview of the social and environmental factors that affect health.
Environmental Lawyer
Environmental Lawyer
An Environmental Lawyer specializes in environmental law and helps to protect the environment and human health. The Social Determinants of Health: Planetary Health would be helpful for an Environmental Lawyer because it provides an overview of the social and environmental factors that can affect health.
Social Worker
Social Worker
A Social Worker helps people navigate social systems and access resources to improve their well-being. The Social Determinants of Health: Planetary Health would be useful for a Social Worker because it provides an overview of the social and environmental factors that can affect health.
Environmental Consultant
Environmental Consultant
An Environmental Consultant helps businesses and organizations understand and comply with environmental regulations. They also develop and implement plans to reduce environmental impact. The Social Determinants of Health: Planetary Health would be helpful for an Environmental Consultant because it provides an overview of the social and environmental factors that can affect health.
Geographer
Geographer
A Geographer studies the physical and human geography of the Earth. They use their knowledge to understand and solve problems related to the environment, society, and the economy. The Social Determinants of Health: Planetary Health course could be helpful for a Geographer because it provides an overview of the social and environmental factors that affect health.
Epidemiologist
Epidemiologist
An Epidemiologist investigates the causes and patterns of disease and other health problems in human populations. The Social Determinants of Health: Planetary Health may be useful for an Epidemiologist because it provides an overview of the social and environmental factors that affect health.
Sustainability Manager
Sustainability Manager
A Sustainability Manager develops and implements sustainability programs and initiatives for businesses and organizations. The Social Determinants of Health: Planetary Health may be useful for a Sustainability Manager because it provides an overview of the social and environmental factors that affect health.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/ouygqv/social
Reading list
We've selected 13 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
Social Determinants of Health: Planetary Health.
Provides an in-depth look at the challenges and opportunities of transitioning to a clean energy future. It is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the role of renewable energy in protecting planetary health.
Provides a compelling account of the current extinction crisis and its implications for human health. It is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the urgency of protecting planetary health.
Save
Provides a hopeful vision for the future and offers practical solutions for addressing the climate crisis. It is essential reading for anyone who wants to be part of the movement to create a sustainable and just future.
Save
Provides a detailed plan for reversing global warming and creating a more sustainable future. It is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the scale of the climate crisis and what we can do to solve it.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the links between environmental health and human health. It is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the importance of protecting planetary health for the sake of our own health.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the health risks associated with climate change and the responses that we can take to protect ourselves. It is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the health impacts of climate change and what we can do to mitigate them.
Classic work of environmental writing that explores the implications of human-caused environmental change. It is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the deep history of the planetary health crisis.
Classic work of environmental writing that helped to raise awareness of the dangers of pesticides. It is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the history of the environmental movement.
Save
Controversial work that explores the dangers of overpopulation. It is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the debates surrounding population growth.
Save
Classic work that explores the limits to economic growth. It is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the sustainability crisis.
Groundbreaking work that explores the history of environmental justice. It is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the social justice dimensions of the planetary health crisis.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the future of food. It is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the challenges and opportunities facing the global food system.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the global water crisis. It is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the challenges and opportunities facing the world's water resources.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/ouygqv/social
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Effort
17 hours to complete
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 (viewing)
- 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
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