3.0

credits

Average Course Rating

This upper-level undergraduate research methods design course explores the growing role of social media in public health research. The course first introduces the current social media landscape, tying in different public health and health communication theories of importance to social media research. This is followed by a discussion of qualitative and quantitative research methods that have been used to conduct social media research, as well as the unique ethical considerations presented by this novel field. The course will then delve into each type of social media platform in depth, discussing how public health research has been conducted and how this ever-changing field continues to move forward. By the end of the course, students will have given explicit consideration to the strengths and challenges posed by conducting social media research in public health, and will be able to apply social media research methods to a public health issue of their interest. Some background in research methods is preferred but not required. Gordis Teaching Fellowship course. Priority registration is given to Public Health Studies majors. Other students will be permitted to register as space allows.