Innovative Teaching for Resilience and Teamwork in Public Health: A Mixed Methods Evaluation

Abstract

This small-scale pilot study using mixed-methods evaluates the impact of an undergraduate public health course, designed using Project-Based Learning, on students’ development of resilience and teamwork. Utilizing both quantitative surveys and a qualitative focus group, the study assessed changes in students’ perceptions of their resilience and teamwork skills before and after the course. Results indicated a significant increase in resilience (9%) and teamwork (4%), with students reporting enhanced self-awareness, career preparedness, and leadership abilities. The small-scale pilot study highlights the potential effectiveness of experiential learning in bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, fostering critical employability skills. However, it also identifies areas for further research, such as the long-term retention of these skills and the impact of cultural competence training. The findings underscore the importance of integrating employability skills into public health curricula to better prepare students for the challenges of the modern workforce. This research contributes to the ongoing dialog regarding the necessity of a holistic educational approach that balances technical and non-technical skill development, ensuring graduates are not only knowledgeable but also adaptable and resilient professionals capable of thriving in diverse and demanding environments.

Keywords

Public health pedagogy project-based learning experiential learning employability skills resilience teamwork course evaluation

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