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Introduction – What’s the purpose of this course?

    Since its premiere in 1994, the television drama “ER” has provided millions of television viewers a dramatic, though “Hollywood,” perspective of life in the emergency room. Although the primary focus of the television series is the life of the doctors, nurses, and nurse practitioners (obviously due to dramatic reasons!), the show also supplies the viewers with a lot of underlying commentary about health, medicine, and social issues. The purpose of this course is to analyze a little deeper some of these issues that are discussed in various episodes of the show and examine them in the context of public health. By understanding some of these issues that are discussed in the show, it is our hope that we as a viewer can begin to appreciate and understand that the topics that Dr. Greene or Dr. Ross deal with in each episode are more than just a dramatic storyline – it’s something that affects each and every one of us.

Grading Policy

15%      Attendance

Since this class meets only once a week, you are expected to attend each class. we will grant one unexcused absence. Unless it is due to extreme circumstances or is approved beforehand, you run the risk of failing the course if you exceed your limit. Besides, the class is going to be fun!

20%      Participation

Your active participation will play an important role in this class. we personally value your opinion and perspective, so do share it!

15%      Homework

You will be in charge of giving one small 5-minute presentation during the course of the semester. The topic of the presentation will be the public health issue for that week. Sign ups will take place on the third class.

20%      Small Group Presentation

You will be in charge of giving one small 5-minute group presentation during the course of the semester. The topic of the presentation will be the public health issue for that week (example: on Feb 23^rd, the topic is sexuality). During the week of your presentation, you will not be required to do the assigned homework. Sign ups for the presentations will take place on the third class.

15%      Midterm

Yes, you read this right. There will be a take home midterm on March 8th. It is not intended to act as a test of your knowledge of ER, factoids, etc., but more to assess your ability to “connect the dots” between the show and reality. Don’t worry – it’ll be fun. Or else you can drop the class.

15%      Final Project Assignment

And yes, there will be a Final Project Assignment. Like the midterm, this will be a fun activity where you can share your thoughts about the issues we’ve been discussing in the course. More details will be given out during the April 5^th class.

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