An introduction to the biomedical sciences, MODERN MEDICINE, provides learners with hands-on research and problem-based investigation to explore the real-world applications of anatomy and physiology. Learners will be required to present research on a medical topic at various venues, including but not limited to the Philadelphia Science Festival, Annenberg Medical Science Symposium, and regional science fairs. Learner investigations will require a working proficiency of the systems of the human body, psychology, sociology and pharmacology.

I designed Modern Medicine as a way of asking students to step outside their comfort zone to grapple with the questions relating to health and medicine in the 21st century. I engage students by having us investigate and build informed understandings of current topics in the field of medicine and society. Topics include race and genome testing, sex, gender and sexuality, addiction and trauma, power and privilege. The course goes well beyond the traditional scope of anatomy and physiology.

• Read and analyze current scientific/medical publications, journals, and articles;
• Develop interviewing and investigation skills through contact with health-advocacy organizations, clinicians and researchers who are currently involved in research related to the learner’s respective interest;
• Tour various medical research facilities, such as university research laboratories, hospitals, industrial drug manufacturing centers, etc.;
• Propose solutions to problems facing the clinical/research profession in an area of interest to the learner; and,
• Explain and analyze various points of view using a critical systems approach
• Team with students and researchers to problem solve and to develop laboratory practice and technique.
• Demonstrate broad awareness of how the self appears from the greater perspective of human experience, question own views in light of this awareness, and contemplate its implications for life choices in personal and public spheres