Scientific writing focuses on explaining the purpose, process, and conclusions drawn from an explanation of the experimental procedure and results and it is expected to remain neutral at all times. This seminar will help students recognize not only the jargon inherent in scientific writing, but also how to read past the dispassionate discourse to find the meaning behind why the authors write in the way they do. In addition, students will develop an eye for the importance of the visual display of scientific information and what figures and tables ultimately can and cannot convey.
In contrast, observation, analysis, empathy, and reflection combined act as powerful tools for how we process the human experience. This seminar will expose students to perspectives through literature, video, live presentations and discussions around social determinants of health, health equity, cultural humility, and the use of narrative as a tool to better understand ourselves and others. Students will learn to tell their own stories, focusing on the value they bring to healthcare.
Students will also investigate the boundary shared between scientific writing and narrative writing as it applies to popular science writing.