Experiential Public Health Study Abroad Education: Strategies for Integrating Theory and Practice

Several reputable commissions on higher education have recommended that U.S. schools of public health develop competency-based education grounded in greater realism through enhanced field experience. The purpose of this article is to present a case study that illustrates an experiential public health education delivery model that meets these expectations. A 3-week field-based course is taught in developing countries each year to expose students to public health strategies in resource poor environments. A primary educational aim is to facilitate comprehension of the multiple influences (financial, political, technical, and cultural) that impact health care delivery and national development. Course participants are exposed to and interact with governmental and nongovernmental organizations in host countries. Students actively participate in course management. Measurable benefits accrue to the students, faculty, and the School of Public Health through this field-based academic program.