COMM 125 Public Health Advocacy (C)
Effective advocacy is essential in contemporary society. When discussing social issues, critical thinking and speaking are needed to effect change. These statements are particularly true in public health. Whether it is COVID-19, cancer or the common cold, the health care system suffers from inadequate, inconsistent, and often incorrect communication. Consequently, students will critically analyze the current state of public health communication to develop compelling arguments. Students will also develop critical messaging skills to inform, persuade, and motivate people with better public health communication. Topics covered in this class will include the nature of public health advocacy, audience analysis and adaptation focused on public health concerns, translating scientific information in the public sphere, effective language/persuasive strategies, visual persuasion, effective rhetorical/oral form and style. We will analyze public health communication in a variety of contexts, from the standard “beside manner, take 2 of these and call me in the morning” doctor’s office to social media memes and classic public health communication campaigns.
Core Requirements
C Component
Offered
Every Spring