Introduction to Epidemiology

Skill targeted: Scientific Design

To become public health experts, clinicians and scientists study the scientific discipline of epidemiology. First, they learn about how disease is transmitted and the occurrence of disease. Then, through scientific inquiry and the collection, analysis, and interpretation of data, they use this information to control or prevent disease or health problems. These activities will explore some of the foundational concepts of epidemiology.

Through these activities, students will learn how to:

• Discover patterns in disease transmission and occurrence
• Explore the public health model for problem solving
• Create an experimental design to explore a novel event or item of interest
• Discuss the advantages, disadvantages, and utility of various types of data.
• Use epidemiology curves and analytic tools that provide evidence for solutions

For background information, please review CDC’s Principles of Epidemiology, 3rd Edition Lesson 1: Introduction to Epidemiology

Activities

• Brain-eating Ameba [PDF – 31 Pages]
• Spreading Sickness in Middle School [PDF – 50 pages]
• Keep Calm and Get Vaccinated [PDF – 37 pages]
• Lung Cancer at Peachstate Community Center [PDF – 44 pages]