Detective Disease: Introduction to Epidemiology for Kids
Explore the fascinating world of disease detectives with our course! Your child will engage in interactive lessons and simulations that introduce them to how diseases spread, basic epidemiology concepts and the importance of public health.
What's included
4 pre-recorded lessons
4 weeks
of teacher support1 year access
to the contentClass Experience
US Grade 5 - 8
"Detective Disease: Introduction to Epidemiology for Kids" is a fun and interactive course designed specifically for the summer break, aimed at engaging young learners in the exciting world of disease detectives. Over the course of the summer, students will delve into the fundamental concepts of epidemiology—the science of how diseases spread and what actions can be taken to prevent them. Here’s an overview of what this course offers: Course Structure: This summer course is organized into weekly modules, each exploring a different aspect of epidemiology through a variety of engaging teaching methods. Teaching Methods and Style: Interactive Lectures: Engaging video clips will explain key concepts in a child-friendly manner. Interactive activities to let children experience the role of an epidemiologist. Discussion and Interaction: The course includes weekly discussion opportunities, encouraging students to interact, share ideas, and learn from each other in a collaborative online environment. Interaction Opportunities: Students will have plenty of chances to work collaboratively. The course is designed to be dynamic and interactive, fostering both peer collaboration and active learning.
Learning Goals
By the end of the summer, participants will have gained a solid foundation in epidemiology, equipped with knowledge about how diseases spread and the measures that can be taken to prevent outbreaks. They will also develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills through various analytical and simulation activities. This course is perfect for curious young minds who are passionate about science and eager to take on the role of a disease detective during their summer break.
Syllabus
4 Lessons
over 4 WeeksLesson 1:
Module 1: What is Epidemiology?
Introduction to the field, basic terminology.
Discover what epidemiology is and why it’s important.
Learn about the roles and tools of epidemiologists. Lesson 2:
Module 2: Germs and How Diseases Spread
Explore different types of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
Understand how diseases are transmitted. Lesson 3:
Module 3: Outbreak Investigation. The Science of Tracking Diseases
A simulated outbreak scenario where students act as disease detectives.
Worksheets to track the spread and identify the source. Lesson 4:
Module 4: Stopping the Spread. Strategies to Fight Diseases
Investigate how communities defend against diseases with quarantines, and sanitation.
Demonstrations on hygiene practices.
Project: Create a public health campaign poster. Other Details
Parental Guidance
This course is designed to be accessible and engaging for young learners, with content tailored to be age-appropriate and educational. The topics covered are presented in a way that is sensitive to young audiences. Here are a few points of guidance:
Content Sensitivity: Although the course discusses diseases and how they spread, all information is presented in a non-alarming manner, focusing on education and prevention. The simulations and discussions are designed to empower students rather than cause worry or fear.
Safety Precautions: Any activities that simulate disease transmission will use safe, hypothetical scenarios or common household items in a controlled way. These activities are crafted to ensure understanding without any risk to physical health.
Third-Party Tools: The course may utilize approved third-party educational tools such as Khan Academy for supplementary videos. No accounts are required for students to access publicly available content.
Pre-Requisites
This course is designed for young learners interested in health, science, or the environment. No previous coursework in epidemiology or advanced science is required.
Supply List
Basic Stationery: Pens and pencils for note-taking. Colored markers or crayons for drawing and project work. Printable Worksheets: Worksheets will be provided by the instructor as downloadable PDF files that can be printed at home. Household Items for Experiments: Simple items like glitter or pepper to simulate germ spread in a controlled and safe experiment. These items are inexpensive and typically available at grocery stores. Notebook or Binder: For organizing notes, worksheets, and project materials.
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Sources
Educational materials from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO) are used to ensure accuracy and reliability.
Supplemental readings and materials are provided from child-friendly science education websites, ensuring all content is appropriate and enriching.
Joined January, 2024
Teacher expertise and credentials
The course is taught by an academic public health scientist with a doctoral degree in epidemiology.
The instructor has experience in teaching science to middle school students, with specific training in creating engaging and informative content that explains complex topics in a way that is understandable for children.
Additional training includes certification in educational technology tools to enhance online learning experiences and engage young learners effectively.Reviews
Self-Paced Class
$25
weekly4 pre-recorded lessons
4 weeks of teacher support
Choose your start date
1 year of access to the content
Choose your start date
Ages: 11-14
