Enhancing Students’ Understanding of Health Disparities and Social Determinants of Health Through a Community and Research-Based Project

The complex health demands of society emphasize the need for future health professionals to gain a deeper understanding of social determinants of health (SDOH) and provide meaningful health outcomes. Seventeen undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in a cross-listed public health elective course in Winter 2020 completed a remote application-based course project. This project was conducted to expand students’ comprehension of SDOH as underlying factors contributing to health disparities and inequities. It also sought to increase their awareness of tools and resources in the community to aid populations in overcoming determinants. Last, it aimed to provide them with experience applying population health concepts and enhancing their research skills. The course project utilized a real-world application approach as it consisted of students (1) developing a Detroit-focused community resource guide, (2) creating a related resource map, and (3) composing two manuscripts on the course project and learning experience. Students’ deliverables included a developed community resource guide and related interactive map and the construction of the manuscripts on the project and their learning experience, which was separated into two manuscripts. Students completed a journal reflection, which was used to assess their learning experience. Students’ journal reflections were examined using NVivo12 to identify the six themes in their learning experience. The project effectively met the course learning outcomes while aiding students in recognizing Detroit’s health disparities and the influence of SDOH. It also provided students with deliverables.