The best aspects of this course included the freedom given to students on their individual projects, as well as the different opportunities students were exposed to in the field. The worst aspect of the course was its seemingly disorganized structure. The class requirements were not effectively communicated and students were not real y directed on any of their assignments. The course would improve if it were better organized and if requirements were properly communicated. Prospective students should expect to spend most of the class working on a project which involves lots of research, report writing, reading, and presentations.

This course was highlighted by student independence in the choice of research topics, objectives, and study design, access to experts from a variety of relevant backgrounds, and supportive feedback from the instructor. Many students were hard pressed to think of a more beneficial and intellectually stimulating experience available at Hopkins. The tradeoff between preparing presentations and written assignments and time for technical development was one negative aspect in the class, as was the lack of structure. Some possible improvements to the course include access to software engineers and manufacturers, faster turn-around time for IRB approval, and faculty who has experienced firsthand being part of a medical device start-up. Prospective students should know this is a student driven course and you make it what you want it to be. This is a rare opportunity, and an amazing chance to start something life changing.