Community-based learning: A campus/community partnership to investigate health disparities

Background: Community-based learning (CBL), a type of experiential learning, is “education in action” and can be a powerful teaching method used to expose and energize students around issues of health disparities and justice. CBL involves student work with disadvantaged and underserved communities (or organizations working with them) and is designed to meet community-defined needs. Wards within the District of Columbia experience extreme health disparities, but few students understand the existence of these disparities and how they might positively impact community health. Description: CBL opportunities were established in partnership with the DC DOH for an undergraduate epidemiology course. Senior epidemiologists/statisticians from the DC DOH met with students to discuss their roles in the analysis of population data, as well as community challenges in achieving “health for all”. Students analyzed epidemiological data related to morbidity and mortality, which was then compiled into a health disparities report for the DC DOH. The DC DOH provided the data necessary to analyze health indicators in the various Wards. Additionally, the Georgetown Center for Social Justice sponsored a series of Bus Tours within the District for the students, for the purpose of exposing them to various neighborhoods in the District, highlight disparities experienced by residents, and available community resources. Lessons Learned: Student reflection papers reported an overwhelming positive reaction to the CBL project and bus tour experience. Recommendations: Community-based learning can provide campus/community partnership opportunities to better understand public health challenges related to health and justice issues, and for advocating for improved resources.