Addressing Social Determinants of Health Through Community Engagement: An Undergraduate Nursing Course

J Nurs Educ. 2019 Jul 1;58(7):423-426. doi: 10.3928/01484834-20190614-07.

Abstract

Background: Community engagement is a promising method for teaching about social determinants of health (SDOH) through experiential learning. The purpose of this article is to report the implementation and evaluation of a baccalaureate nursing degree course focused on addressing social determinants of health through community engagement.

Method: The class was structured as a flipped classroom, during which students spent the majority of the time engaged with a community site. Students were required to attend two in-class seminars. Course evaluations were used to provide feedback to refine course delivery and assess course impact.

Results: Thirty-six students enrolled in the course over two semesters. Knowledge and self-reported competencies in addressing SDOH in under-resourced populations increased. Course evaluations demonstrated an increase in students' knowledge and clinical skills related to SDOH.

Conclusion: A course focused on addressing SDOH through community engagement provided a promising approach for preparing nursing students to provide care to underresourced populations. [J Nurs Educ. 2019;58(7):423-426.].

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Community Participation*
  • Education, Nursing, Baccalaureate / methods*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Problem-Based Learning / methods*
  • Social Determinants of Health*
  • Young Adult