Health and Natural Sciences (A2 Course)

Experience an exciting introduction to the field of planetary health — an emerging framework for understanding the linkages between human health and the state of ecosystems.

We will use the Covid-19 pandemic as an example, looking at the origins, spread, and subsequent response to the outbreak. We will use relevant reports, videos and articles, and students will participate in discussion and Q&A sessions. 1 unit.

Learning Objectives:

Define the principles and components of the planetary health framework

Explore the possible origins of the Covid-19 pandemic

Discuss and visualize the spread and risk factors of the global outbreak

Discuss the global, US and California responses to the pandemic

Identify and deconstruct the misinformation and myths surrounding the origins and impact of the pandemic

Mode: 
Blended synchronous (live classes) and asynchronous (independent, guided learning)

Platform:
Moodle, Zoom, Google Suite

Requirements:
For new and continuing Dominican students. Students need reliable internet access.

Schedule: 
Four one-hour Zoom sessions: 

Session 1: Introduction to the course. Monday, July 13, 1:30-2:30 p.m.

Session 2: Discussion of origins, Thursday, July 16, 1:30-2:30 p.m.

Session 3: Discussion of spread, Thursday, July 23, 1:30-2:30 p.m.

Session 4: Discussion of response, Thursday, July 30, 1:30-2:30 p.m.

Instructors:
Patti Culross and Brett Bayles

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Do you have an affinity for exotic pets? Especially cold-blooded ones? Or maybe you are interested in learning more about amphibians and reptiles? This course will give you an introduction to herpetology (the study of amphibians and reptiles), captive animal care, and a few techniques that herpetologists use to study these animals.

Possible topics include: an introduction to the diversity of amphibians and reptiles of the world, exploration of the natural history of California amphibians and reptiles, captive animal care and enclosure design (zoos and pets), common ailments of captive and wild animals, and a broad overview of surveying techniques (with a focus on frog call surveys). 1 unit.

Mode: 
Blended synchronous (live classes) and asynchronous (independent, guided learning)

Platform:
Moodle, Zoom, YouTube

Requirements:
For new and continuing Dominican students. Students need reliable internet access.

Schedule: 
Mondays and Wednesdays, 3:30-5 p.m. (July 13-Aug.3)

Instructors:
Obed Hernandez-Gomez

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This course will take you virtually to different parts of the world to learn about global biodiversity, conservation and anthropogenic impacts. Case studies will be used to illustrate the diversity of life on the planet, its importance, what are the unique and common challenges to conserve wildlife, and how local action contributes to global change. This course uses the platforms Moodle and Zoom and is a blend of four synchronous sessions and asynchronous learning. Students need reliable internet access. Recommended for new and returning students. 1 unit.

Mode: 
Blended synchronous (live classes) and asynchronous (independent, guided learning)

Platform:
Moodle, Zoom, Google Suite

Requirements:
For new and continuing Dominican students. Students need reliable internet access.

Schedule: 
Wednesdays, 1-3 p.m. (July 15-Aug. 5)

Instructors:
Vania Coelho

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Meet Your Instructors

Patti Culross headshot

Patti L. Culross, MD, MPH

Assistant Professor Global Public Health Program Director
Brett Bayles headshot

Brett Bayles, PhD

Assistant Professor of Global Public Health