Purpose

This module will introduce you to the field of epidemiology as it pertains to the practice of public health. The focus is on fundamental concepts in epidemiology, including causation, the epidemiologic triad, public health surveillance, and the natural history of disease, all grounded in the public health approach. It is the first module in a suite of three introductory modules focused on epidemiology and public health. The other two modules are Measurement of Health Status (EPI 2) and Epidemiological Methods (EPI 3), and each module builds on the knowledge acquired in the previous one.

Prerequisites

There are no prerequisites for this module. However, if you are new to this online learning environment, you are required to complete the Desire2Learn (D2L) Technology Orientation -an On-Line Guided Tour. This will help you learn the technical nuances of navigating through the Modules.

Objectives and Competencies

The objectives of the Basic Epidemiological Concepts module are to:

• Enhance your understanding of the fundamentals of epidemiology.
• Increase your ability to apply basic epidemiological principles to your work as a public health practitioner.

Successful completion of this module contributes to the attainment of the following core competencies:

• Demonstrate knowledge about the following concepts: the health status of populations, inequities in health, the determinants of health and illness, strategies for health promotion, disease and injury prevention, and health protection, as well as the factors that influence the delivery and use of health services.
• 1.2 Demonstrate knowledge about the history, structure and interaction of public health and health care services at local, provincial/territorial, national, and international levels.
• 1.3 Apply the public health sciences to practice.

• 2.5 Determine the meaning of information, considering the current ethical, political, scientific, socio-cultural and economic contexts.

• 7.3 Utilize public health ethics to manage self, others, information and resources.

The Learning Process

This module is divided into five lessons, with five assignments and three discussion forum activities. Each lesson ends with a self-assessment test. You will have eight weeks to complete the 33 to 40 hours of work required. A commitment of 3-5 hours per week is suggested. The Desire2Learn (D2L) On-Line Guided Tour will help you learn the technical nuances of navigating through the modules.

A trained online facilitator, knowledgeable in public health, is assigned to your group to provide support and guidance. She/he is available to answer content-related questions, provide feedback on assignments, and encourage discussion among participants through discussion forums.

A Learning Schedule is provided to help guide you through the lessons and adhere to the required time frames.

EPI 1 Learning Schedule

Work	Schedule	Time
Lesson 1: Epidemiology – Definitions, Origins and Uses Introduction Discussion Activity Discussion Activity 1: Is studying the history of epidemiology a useful exercise? Assignment 1: The meaning of epidemiology Self-assessment Lesson 1	Weeks 1 - 2	5 – 8 hours
Lesson 2: Cause and Effect in Epidemiology. Discussion Activity 2: The cause-effect relationship Assignment 2: Outbreaks of waterborne disease Self-assessment Lesson 2	Week 3	5 – 6 hours
Lesson 3: The Natural History of Disease Discussion Activity 3: Primary prevention Assignment : The natural history of disease Self-assessment Lesson 3	Week 4	3 – 4 hours
Lesson 4: Public Health Surveillance Assignment 4: Cancer Surveillance	Weeks 5 - 6	3 – 4 hours
Lesson 5: Biomedical Ethics Discussion Activity 4: Voluntary or mandatory immunization Assignment 5: Ethical Dilemma Self-assessment Lesson 5	Week 7
Wrap - up	Week 8	2 – 3 hours

Lessons

The lessons in this module utilize a mix of text, figures and links to websites to:

• Define epidemiology.
• Describe the historical development of epidemiology.
• Outline the various uses of epidemiology in public health practice.
• Introduce theories of causation.
• Describe how agent, host and environment variables interact to affect health in communities.
• Outline the stages of the natural history of a disease.
• List and describe the steps in the surveillance cycle.
• Introduce the ethical theories and principles underlying the use of epidemiology in public health practice.

Discussion Forums

Discussion Forums are integral to the module. They are used extensively to enrich your learning experience by enabling you to interact with your fellow learners and facilitator and to discuss a number of issues related to the epidemiologic methods presented in the modules. Messages can be posted and read on the Discussion Forum system whenever convenient - 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The discussion activities focus on the application of epidemiology to public health practice. You are asked to share your thoughts and experiences on several topics that are covered in the module, including a fairly challenging reflection on the application of ethical principles in practice.

Assignments

Assignments feature in all the modules, allowing you to reflect on the content and to apply some of the concepts and principles to your work as a public health practitioner.

The assignments in this module require some thought and preparation. You are asked to reflect on the meaning of epidemiology, to work through an outbreak report, to review surveillance reports, to examine the natural history of disease, and to describe an ethical dilemma.

Assignments take no more than a page or two. Your facilitator will review, grade and provide individual feedback for each assignment. An incomplete assignment will be returned with your facilitator’s comments and a request to resubmit.

Self-assessments

Following most lessons, you will be able to complete a short quiz to evaluate your understanding of the subject matter presented within each lesson. Self-assessments are not submitted to facilitators; you will receive automatic feedback on your performance.

Requirements

Successful completion of this module requires you to:

1. Complete all activities within the prescribed time frame for each.
2. Receive a satisfactory rating for all assignments.
3. Participate in each discussion forum.
4. Complete the final feedback survey questionnaire.

Participants receive a certificate from the Public Health Agency of Canada upon successful completion of the module.

Registration information is available online.

Purpose

This module will introduce you to the various tools, methods, measures and data sources used to evaluate aspects of health in your community, health region and/or province or territory. It is the second module in a suite of three introductory modules focused on epidemiology and public health. The other two modules are Basic Epidemiological Concepts (EPI 1) and Epidemiological Methods (EPI 3), and each module builds on the knowledge acquired in the previous one.

Prerequisites

EPI 1, Basic Epidemiological Concepts, is the only prerequisite for the module.

Objectives and Competencies

Upon completion of this module, you will be able to:

• Describe and use common epidemiologic tools, data sources and methods for measuring, monitoring and visually representing the health of a community.
• Use epidemiologic tools, data sources and methods to outline a framework for assessing the health of a community.
• Identify and define a basic set of health status indicators.
• Locate and use Internet-based data sources to assess the health of a community, as defined in your framework.
• Describe the use of a variety of methods for presenting epidemiological data.

Successful completion of this module contributes to the attainment of the following core competencies:

• 1.1 Demonstrate knowledge about the following concepts: the health status of populations, inequities in health, the determinants of health and illness, strategies for health promotion, disease and injury prevention, and health protection, as well as the factors that influence the delivery and use of health services.
• 1.3 Apply the public health sciences to practice.
• 1.4 Use evidence and research to inform health policies and programs.

• 2.1 Recognize that a health concern or issue exists.
• 2.2 Identify relevant and appropriate sources of information, including community assets and resources.
• 2.3 Collect, store, retrieve and use accurate and appropriate information on public health issues.
• 2.4 Analyze information to determine appropriate implications, uses, gaps and limitations.
• 2.5 Determine the meaning of information, considering the current ethical, political, scientific, socio-cultural and economic contexts.

• 5.1 Recognize how the determinants of health (biological, social, cultural, economic and physical) influence the health and well-being of specific population groups.

• 6.2 Interpret information for professional, non-professional and community audiences.

• 7.3  Utilize public health ethics to manage self, others, information and resources.

The Learning Process

This module is divided into four lessons, and includes five assignments and three discussion activities. Each lesson ends with a self-assessment test. You will have eight weeks to complete the 30 to 39 hours of work required (a commitment of 3-5 hours per week is suggested; see the learning schedule below).

A trained online facilitator, knowledgeable in public health, is assigned to your group to provide support and guidance. The facilitator is available to answer content-related questions, provide feedback on assignments, and encourage discussion among participants through discussion forums.

EPI 2 Learning Schedule

Work	Schedule	Time
Lesson 1 Health Status Assessment (begin) Introduction Discussion Activity	Week 1	3 - 5 hours
Lesson 1 Health Status Assessment (complete) Assignment 1: Demographics in your region Assignment 2: Breast cancer rates Discussion Activity 1: Using Epidemiology in the workplace Self-assessment Lesson 1	Weeks 2 and 3	8 - 10 hours
Lesson 2 Health Indicators Discussion Activity 2: Sources of health information Assignment 3: Births and Deaths Self-assessment Lesson 2	Weeks 4 and 5	8 - 10 hours
Lesson 3: Sources of Health Information Assignment 4: Health Indicators Discussion Activity 3: Presentations – the good, the bad and the “so-so” Self-assessment Lesson 3	Week 6	5 - 6 hours
Lesson 4 Organizing and Displaying Epidemiologic Data Assignment 5: State of Health in Your Region Self-assessment Lesson 4	Week 7	4 – 5 hours
Wrap -up	Week 8	2 – 3 hours

Lessons

The lessons in this module utilize a mix of text, figures and links to websites to:

• Define ratios, proportions, the population pyramid, crude, specific and adjusted rates, incidence and prevalence
• Define health and health status and review the various indicators of health status.
• Describe, calculate and interpret mortality rates, fatality rates and indicators of health.
• Assess the health of a community using selected indicators of health status.
• Examine various sources of information available to define the health of a community.
• Explore strategies for selecting appropriate sources for selected indicators of health status.
• Explore preparing, analyzing and interpreting various types of data presentation tools, including tables, graphs and charts.

Discussion Forums

Discussion forums are integral to the module. They are used extensively to enrich your learning experience by enabling you to interact with your fellow learners and facilitator and to discuss a number of issues related to the epidemiologic methods presented in the modules. Messages can be posted and read on the forum system whenever convenient - 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The three discussion activities ask you to share your thoughts and experiences as you apply particular health status measures to your work or health region (e.g., incidence, prevalence), discuss some of the data sources that are used in your work and reflect on some of presentations you have attended and what made them the worst or the best.

Assignments

Assignments feature in all the modules, allowing you to reflect on the module content and to apply some of the concepts and principles to your work as a public health practitioner.

The five assignments in this module ask you to calculate and comment on various measures including the demographics in your region, breast cancer rates, births and deaths and selected health indicators. The final assignment asks you to develop the planning phase of a professional presentation regarding a health issue in your region.

Assignments take no more than a page or two. Your facilitator will review, grade and provide individual feedback for each assignment. An incomplete assignment will be returned with your facilitator’s comments and a request to resubmit.

Self-assessments

Following each lesson you will be able to complete a short quiz to evaluate your understanding of the subject matter presented within each lesson. You will receive automatic feedback on your performance.

Requirements

Successful completion of this module requires you to:

1. Complete all activities within the prescribed time frame for each.
2. Receive a satisfactory rating for all assignments.
3. Participate in each discussion forum.
4. Complete the final feedback survey questionnaire.

Participants receive a certificate from the Public Health Agency of Canada upon successful completion of the Module.

Registration information is available online.

Purpose

This module will introduce you specific approaches and methods used in public health epidemiology. It is the third module in a suite of three introductory modules focused on epidemiology and public health. The other two modules are Basic Epidemiological Concepts (EPI 1) and Measurement of Health Status (EPI 2). Each module builds on the knowledge acquired in the previous one.

Prerequisites

Basic Epidemiological Concepts (EPI 1) is the only prerequisite for this module.

Objectives and Competencies

The objectives of the Epidemiological Methods module are to:

• Introduce a basic classification of epidemiological studies.
• Describe and discuss the strengths and limitations of each study design.
• Identify the ethical considerations in the design and conduct of epidemiological studies.
• Describe the role of random and systematic error in epidemiological studies.
• Discuss the use and dimensions of the variables person, place and time in descriptive epidemiology.
• Introduce and outline the steps in the investigation of outbreaks.

Successful completion of this module contributes to the attainment of the following core competencies:

• 1.1  Demonstrate knowledge about the following concepts: the health status of populations, inequities in health, the determinants of health and illness, strategies for health promotion, disease and injury prevention, and health protection, as well as the factors that influence the delivery and use of health services.
• 1.2  Demonstrate knowledge about the history, structure and interaction of public health and health care services at local, provincial/territorial, national, and international levels.
• 1.3 Apply the public health sciences to practice.

• 2.1 Recognize that a health concern or issue exists.
• 2.2 Identify relevant and appropriate sources of information, including community assets and resources.
• 2.3 Collect, store, retrieve and use accurate and appropriate information on public health issues.
• 2.4 Analyze information to determine appropriate implications, uses, gaps and limitations.

• 3.1 Describe selected policy and program options to address a specific public health issue.
• 3.2 Describe the implications of each option, especially as they apply to the determinants of health and recommend or decide on a course of action.
• 3.3 Develop a plan to implement a course of action taking into account relevant evidence, legislation, emergency planning procedures, regulations and policies.
• 3.4 Implement a policy or program and/or take appropriate action to address a specific public health issue.

• 7.1 Describe the mission and priorities of the public health organization where one works, and apply them in practice.
• 7.3 Utilize public health ethics to manage self, others, information and resources.

The Learning Process

This module is divided into three lessons, and includes assignments and discussion forum activities. Each lesson ends with a self-assessment test. You will have eight weeks to complete the 21- 30 hours of work required (a commitment of 3-5 hours per week is suggested; see the learning schedule below).

A trained online facilitator, knowledgeable in public health, is assigned to your group to provide support and guidance. She/he is available to answer content-related questions, provide feedback on assignments, and encourage discussion among participants through discussion forums.

EPI 3 Learning Schedule

Work	Schedule	Time
Lesson 1: Descriptive Epidemiology Introduction Discussion Activity Assignment 1: Descriptive epidemiological concepts Self-assessment Lesson 1	Weeks 1 - 3	9 – 15 hours
Lesson 2: Types of Epidemiological studies Discussion 1:Relevance of analytic studies Assignment 2: Study review and design	Weeks 4 - 5	5 – 6 hours
Lesson 3: Investigation of Disease Outbreaks Discussion 2: Applying epidemiology to the practice of public health Assignment : The natural history of disease Self-assessment Lesson 3	Weeks 6 - 7	5 – 6 hours
Wrap - up	Week 8	2 – 3 hours

Lessons

The lessons in this module utilize a mix of text, figures and links to websites to:

• Describe some of the descriptive and analytic study designs used in epidemiology
• Outline the uses of each major study design.
• Explore the exposure-outcome relationship of these study designs.
• List the steps in the epidemiologic study cycle.
• Describe measures that assist in safeguarding the ethical conduct of epidemiologic studies.
• Describe sources of error in epidemiologic studies.
• Introduce the outbreak investigation process.
• Describe applications of descriptive and analytic epidemiology in public health practice.
• Outline some of the current and future challenges for descriptive epidemiology.

Discussion Forums

Discussion forums are integral to the module. They are used extensively to enrich your learning experience by enabling you to interact with your fellow learners and facilitator and to discuss a number of issues related to the epidemiologic methods presented. Messages can be posted and read on the discussion forum system whenever convenient - 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Assignments

Assignments feature in all the modules, allowing you to reflect on the content and to apply some of the concepts and principles to your work as a public health practitioner.

There are only two assignments in this module, but each require some synthesis of previously covered concepts (EPI 1). The first assignment focuses on descriptive study designs, and the second one gives you the opportunity to review and interpret some published reports.

Assignments take no more than a page or two. Your facilitator will review, grade and provide individual feedback for each assignment. An incomplete assignment will be returned with your facilitator’s comments and a request to resubmit.

Self-assessments

Following most lessons you will be able to complete a short quiz to evaluate your understanding of the subject matter presented within each lesson. Self-assessments are not submitted to facilitators; you will receive automatic feedback on your performance. You will also work through a basic outbreak investigation, using a threaded case study format.

Requirements

Successful completion of this module requires you to:

1. Complete all activities within the prescribed time frame for each.
2. Receive a satisfactory rating for all assignments.
3. Participate in each discussion forum.
4. Complete the final feedback survey questionnaire.

Participants receive a certificate from the Public Health Agency of Canada upon successful completion of the Module.

Registration information is available online.

Purpose

The goal of this module is to introduce the basic principles and steps involved in the investigation and management of outbreaks. Learning materials focus on a systematic, methodical approach utilizing epidemiology and statistics and also reinforce the need for communication during an investigation.

Prerequisites

EPI 1, Basic Epidemiological Concepts, is the only prerequisite for the module.

You will need a basic understanding of the fundamentals of epidemiology and an understanding of high school mathematics. You will be working with rates, and so will require some knowledge in the use of ratios, proportions, crude, specific and adjusted rates, incidence and prevalence; defining health and health status; assessing the health of a community using selected indicators of health status; preparing, analyzing and interpreting various types of data and of presentation tools, including tables, graphs and charts in your work as a public health practitioner.

If you are a beginning practitioner or would like to refresh your knowledge of the fundamentals of epidemiology, you are encouraged to take the first three Introductory Modules (Epi 1: Basic Epidemiological Concepts; Epi 2: Measurement of Health Status and Epi 3: Epidemiological Methods) before registering for this module.

Objectives and Competencies

Upon completion of this module you will:

• Understand the goal, objectives and steps of an outbreak investigation.
• Be able to create and apply a case definition within the context of an outbreak investigation.
• Know the key elements of a standard investigation questionnaire.
• Be able to interpret descriptive data in terms of time, place and person characteristics.
• Be able to generate verifiable hypotheses on the source, mode of transmission, vehicle or vector of propagation, exposures or risk factors.
• Be able to identify appropriate control measures to halt an outbreak.
• Know the elements required for documenting an outbreak and how these may be used to prepare concise reports.
• Review the essential organizational and operational aspects of an outbreak investigation.

Successful completion of this module contributes to the attainment of the following core competencies:

• 1.1  Demonstrate knowledge about the following concepts: the health status of populations, inequities in health, the determinants of health and illness, strategies for health promotion, disease and injury prevention, and health protection, as well as the factors that influence the delivery and use of health services.
• 1.3 Apply the public health sciences to practice.

• 2.1 Recognize that a health concern or issue exists.
• 2.2 Identify relevant and appropriate sources of information, including community assets and resources.
• 2.3 Collect, store, retrieve and use accurate and appropriate information on public health issues.
• 2.4 Analyze information to determine appropriate implications, uses, gaps and limitations.
• 2.5 Determine the meaning of information, considering the current ethical, political, scientific, socio-cultural and economic contexts.
• 2.6 Recommend specific actions based on the analysis of information.

• 3.1 Describe selected policy and program options to address a specific public health issue.
• 3.2 Describe the implications of each option, especially as they apply to the determinants of health and recommend or decide on a course of action.
• 3.3 Develop a plan to implement a course of action taking into account relevant evidence, legislation, emergency planning procedures, regulations and policies.
• 3.4 Implement a policy or program and/or take appropriate action to address a specific public health issue.
• 3.8 Demonstrate the ability to fulfill functional roles in response to a public health emergency.

• 4.2 Use skills such as team building, negotiation, conflict management and group facilitation to build partnerships.

• 6.1 Communicate effectively with individuals, families, groups, communities and colleagues.
• 6.2 Interpret information for professional, non-professional and community audiences.
• 6.4 Use current technology to communicate effectively.

• 7.1 Describe the mission and priorities of the public health organization where one works, and apply them in practice.

The Learning Process

This module is divided into five lessons, including three assignments and six discussion forum activities. There is also an E. coli case study threaded through each lesson to build on the concepts as they are introduced. Each lesson ends with a self-assessment. You will have eight weeks to complete the 23-31 hours of work required (about 3-5 hours per week is suggested; see the learning schedule below).

A trained online facilitator, knowledgeable in public health, is assigned to your group to provide support and guidance. The facilitator is available to answer content-related questions, provide feedback on assignments, and encourage discussion among participants through discussion forums.

APP 1 Learning Schedule

Work	Schedule	Time
Lesson 1 Introduction to Outbreak Investigation Introduction Discussion Activity Case Study Part 1 Discussion Activity: Applying Lesson 1 Self-assessment Lesson 1	Week 1 - 2	3 - 5 hours
Lesson 2  Steps 1 through 4 Case Study Parts 2-5 Assignment 1: Hypotheses and case definitions Discussion Activity 2: Applying Lesson 2 Self-assessment Lesson 2	Weeks 3 and 4	6 - 8  hours
Lesson 3 Parts 6, 7 and 8 Case Study Parts 6-8 Discussion Activity 3: Applying Lesson 3 Assignment 2: Distribution of cases Self-assessment Lesson 3	Week 5	3 - 4 hours
Lesson 4 Steps 8 through 10 Case Study Parts 9-14 Assignment 3: Case study epidemiology evidence Discussion Activity 4: Applying Lesson 4 Self-assessment Lesson 4	Weeks 6 - 7	7 - 9 hours
Lesson 5 Steps 11 through 13 Case Study Parts 15, 16, and case conclusion Discussion Activity 5: Applying Lesson 5 Self-assessment Lesson 5	Week 8	4 – 5 hours

Lessons

The five lessons utilize a mixture of text, figures, and links to websites to guide you through the systematic steps of an outbreak investigation. The first lesson introduces key concepts pertaining to outbreak investigations. Lessons 2 through to 5 then proceed through the steps, focusing on the methodologies and the practical applications of the process.

Discussion Forums

Discussion forums are integral to the module. Messages can be posted and read on the forum system whenever convenient - 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Assignments

Assignments feature in all the modules, allowing you to reflect on the module content and to apply some of the concepts and principles to your work as a public health practitioner. The assignments in this module focus on case definitions, steps in the investigation of outbreaks, and testing of hypotheses.

Self-assessments

Following each lesson you will be able to complete a short quiz to evaluate your understanding of the subject matter presented within each lesson. You will receive automatic feedback on your performance.

Requirements

Successful completion of this module requires you to:

1. Complete all activities within the prescribed time frame for each.
2. Receive a satisfactory rating for all assignments.
3. Participate in each discussion forum.
4. Complete the final feedback survey questionnaire.

Participants receive a certificate from the Public Health Agency of Canada upon successful completion of the module.

Registration information is available online.

Purpose

The overall purpose of this module is to advance your knowledge and understanding of the epidemiology of chronic disease, health determinants and risk factors. Learning materials focus on the basic concepts, determinants, risk factors and interventions to prevent and/or control chronic disease.

Prerequisites

EPI 1, Basic Epidemiological Concepts, is the only prerequisite for the module.

You will need a basic understanding of the fundamentals of epidemiology and an understanding of high school mathematics. You will be working with rates, and will require some knowledge in the use of ratios, proportions, crude, specific and adjusted rates; incidence and prevalence; defining health and health status; assessing the health of a community using indicators of health status; and preparing, analyzing and interpreting various data types and of presentation tools, including tables, graphs and charts.

If you are a beginning practitioner or would like to refresh your knowledge of the fundamentals of epidemiology you are encouraged to take the introductory Epidemiology Modules (Epi 1: Basic Epidemiological Concepts; Epi 2: Measurement of Health Status and Epi 3: Epidemiological Methods) before registering for this module.

Objectives and Competencies

Upon completion of this module you will:

• Understand the basic principles of the epidemiology of chronic diseases, including data sources, burden of disease, and the relationship of chronic disease to public health.
• Understand the relationships between the determinants of health, risk behaviours and chronic diseases.

Successful completion of this module contributes to the attainment of the following core competencies:

• 1.1 Demonstrate knowledge about the following concepts: the health status of populations, inequities in health, the determinants of health and illness, strategies for health promotion, disease and injury prevention, and health protection, as well as the factors that influence the delivery and use of health services.
• 1.2 Demonstrate knowledge about the history, structure and interaction of public health and health care services at local, provincial/territorial, national, and international levels.
• 1.3 Apply the public health sciences to practice.
• 1.4 Use evidence and research to inform health policies and programs.

• 2.1 Recognize that a health concern or issue exists.
• 2.2 Identify relevant and appropriate sources of information, including community assets and resources.
• 2.3 Collect, store, retrieve and use accurate and appropriate information on public health issues.
• 2.4 Analyze information to determine appropriate implications, uses, gaps and limitations.
• 2.5 Determine the meaning of information, considering the current ethical, political, scientific, socio-cultural and economic contexts.
• 2.6 Recommend specific actions based on the analysis of information.

• 3.1 Describe selected policy and program options to address a specific public health issue.
• 3.2 Describe the implications of each option, especially as they apply to the determinants of health and recommend or decide on a course of action.
• 3.3 Develop a plan to implement a course of action taking into account relevant evidence, legislation, emergency planning procedures, regulations and policies.
• 3.4 Implement a policy or program and/or take appropriate action to address a specific public health issue.
• 3.5 Demonstrate the ability to implement effective practice guidelines.
• 3.6 Evaluate an action, policy or program.
• 3.7 Demonstrate an ability to set and follow priorities, and to maximize outcomes based on available resources.
• 3.8 Demonstrate the ability to fulfill functional roles in response to a public health emergency.

• 4.4 Advocate for healthy public policies and services that promote and protect the health and well-being of individuals and communities.

• 5.1 Recognize how the determinants of health (biological, social, cultural, economic and physical) influence the health and well-being of specific population groups.
• 5.2 Address population diversity when planning, implementing, adapting and evaluating public health programs and policies.
• 5.3 Apply culturally-relevant and appropriate approaches with people from diverse cultural, socioeconomic and educational backgrounds, and persons of all ages, genders, health status, sexual orientations and abilities.

• 6.2 Interpret information for professional, non-professional and community audiences.

• 7.2 Contribute to developing key values and a shared vision in planning and implementing public health programs and policies in the community.

The Learning Process

This module is divided into four lessons, with two assignments and four discussion forum activities. Each lesson ends with a self-assessment test. You will have eight weeks to complete the 24-30 hours of work required (about 3-5 hours per week is suggested; see the learning schedule below).

A trained online facilitator, knowledgeable in public health, is assigned to your group to provide support and guidance. The facilitator is available to answer content-related questions, provide feedback on assignments, and encourage discussion among participants through discussion forums.

APP 2 Learning Schedule

Work	Schedule	Time
Lesson 1: Basic Concepts Introduction Discussion Activity Discussion Activity 1: Chronic conditions Self-assessment Lesson 1	Weeks 1 - 2	5 – 7 hours
Lesson 2: Determinants of Health Discussion Activity 2: Determinants of health Self-assessment Lesson 2	Week 3	4 - 5 hours
Lesson 3: Risk Factors Assignment 1: Chronic conditions Self-assessment Lesson 3	Week 4 - 5	5 – 6 hours
Lesson 4: Public Health Interventions Assignment 2: Public health interventions Discussion Activity 3: Screening	Weeks 6- 7	8 – 9 hours
Wrap - up	Week 8	2 – 3 hours

Lessons

The four lessons in this module use a mixture of text, figures and links to websites to guide you through the following key concepts:

• Incidence, prevalence and mortality rates and how they are used to express the burden of chronic disease, with data obtained from various sources.
• Health determinants as factors influencing health status and chronic conditions.
• Risk factors that put individuals at risk for adverse health conditions.
• Population health approaches and interventions to prevent and control chronic illness.

Discussion Forums

Discussion forums are integral to the module. Messages can be posted and read on the forum system whenever convenient - 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Assignments

Assignments feature in all the modules, allowing you to reflect on the module content and to apply the concepts and principles to your work as a public health practitioner. The two assignments in this module ask you to examine a community chronic condition from a variety of perspectives to determine relative risk factors, and to determine appropriate public health interventions to address identified risk factors.

Self-assessment tests

Following each lesson, you will be able to complete a short quiz to evaluate your understanding of the subject matter presented within each lesson. You will receive automatic feedback on your performance.

Requirements

Successful completion of this module requires you to:

1. Complete all activities within the prescribed time frame for each.
2. Receive a satisfactory rating for all assignments.
3. Participate in each discussion forum.
4. Complete the final feedback survey questionnaire.

Participants receive a certificate from the Public Health Agency of Canada upon successful completion of the Module.

Registration information is available online.

Purpose

This module introduces you to the basic concepts in injury epidemiology; the study of the distribution and determinants of injury in a defined population and its application to the control of injury events.

Prerequisites

EPI 1, Basic Epidemiological Concepts, is the only prerequisite for the module.

You will need a basic understanding of the fundamentals of epidemiology and an understanding of high school mathematics. You will be working with rates, and so will require some knowledge in the use of ratios, proportions, crude, specific and adjusted rates; incidence and prevalence; defining health and health status; assessing the health of a community using selected indicators of health status; and preparing, analyzing and interpreting various types of data and of presentation tools, including tables, graphs and charts.

If you are a beginning practitioner or would like to refresh your knowledge of the fundamentals of epidemiology, you are encouraged to take the first three Introductory Modules (Epi 1: Basic Epidemiological Concepts; Epi 2: Measurement of Health Status and Epi 3: Epidemiological Methods) before registering for this module.

Objectives and Competencies

Upon completion of the module, you will be able to:

1. Define injury and injury surveillance.
2. Identify and outline a number of approaches and issues associated with injury and injury surveillance from a public health perspective.
3. Identify a number of sources for injury data.
4. Identify and outline a number of sources of surveillance data and tools.
5. Identify strengths and weaknesses of various injury surveillance data sources and tools.
6. Apply a number of public health tools and frameworks used for injury prevention and intervention.

Successful completion of this module contributes to the attainment of the following core competencies:

• 2.1 Recognize that a health concern or issue exists.
• 2.3 Collect, store, retrieve and use accurate and appropriate information on public health issues.

• 3.1 Describe selected policy and program options to address a specific public health issue.
• 3.2 Describe the implications of each option, especially as they apply to the determinants of health and recommend or decide on a course of action.

• 4.1 Identify and collaborate with partners in addressing public health issues.
• 4.4 Advocate for healthy public policies and services that promote and protect the health and well-being of individuals and communities.

The Learning Process

This module is divided into four lessons, with assignments and discussion forum activities. Each lesson ends with a self-assessment test. You will have eight weeks to complete the 25-33 hours of work required (about 3-5 hours per week is suggested; see the learning schedule below).

A trained online facilitator, knowledgeable in public health, is assigned to your group to provide support and guidance. The facilitator is available to answer content-related questions, provide feedback on assignments, and encourage discussion among participants through discussion forums.

APP 3 Learning Schedule

Work	Schedule	Time
Lesson 1 Introduction to Epidemiology of Injury Introduction Discussion Activity Discussion Activity 1: Injury prevention Self-assessment Lesson 1	Weeks 1 and 2	4 – 6 hours
Lesson 2 Injury and Risk Assignment 1: High risk groups Discussion Activity 2: High risk groups Self-assessment Lesson 2	Weeks 3 and 4	7 - 9 hours
Lesson 3 Injury Surveillance Discussion Activity 3: Injury and public health Assignment 3: Births and Deaths Self-assessment Lesson 3	Week 5	4 - 5 hours
Lesson 4 Injury Prevention Assignment 2: Applying Haddon’s matrix Discussion Activity 4: Interventions Self-assessment Lesson 4	Weeks 6 and 7	8 -10 hours
Wrap -up	Week 8	2 – 3 hours

Lessons

The four lessons utilize a mixture of text, figures, and links to websites to guide you through the content. Using the public health approach, the module covers concepts, definitions, surveillance approaches and data sources, classification systems, and prevention approaches.

Discussion Forums

Discussion forums are integral to the module. Each of the four content-related discussions pivot around a detailed recorded interview, and the interviews run about 10-15 minutes each. Messages can be posted and read on the forum system whenever convenient - 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Assignments

Assignments feature in all the modules, allowing you to reflect on the module content and to apply some of the concepts and principles to your work as a public health practitioner. The two assignments in this module ask you to retrieve, review and comment on data for a group at higher risk for injury, and to apply Haddon’s matrix for a specific injury scenario.

Self-assessments

Following each lesson, you will be able to complete a short quiz to evaluate your understanding of the subject matter presented within each lesson. You will receive automatic feedback on your performance.

Requirements

Successful completion of this module requires you to:

1. Complete all activities within the prescribed time frame for each.
2. Receive a satisfactory rating for all assignments.
3. Participate in each discussion forum.
4. Complete the final feedback survey questionnaire.

Participants receive a certificate from the Public Health Agency of Canada upon successful completion of the Module.

Registration information is available online.

Purpose

This module aims to advance your knowledge and ability to participate in the various aspects of the public health surveillance cycle and to use public health surveillance systems to move data from information to action in the workplace. Learning materials focus on the dissemination of public health surveillance data and information through an overview of the basic principles, followed by a review of some of the major surveillance products of Canadian and International surveillance systems. The module includes only an outline of the basic principles, skills and strategies of communicating data effectively as these items are the subject of SUR 2: Communicating Data Effectively.

Prerequisites

EPI 1, Basic Epidemiological Concepts, is the only prerequisite for the module.

You will need a basic understanding of the fundamentals of epidemiology and an understanding of high school mathematics. You will be working with rates, and so will require some knowledge in the use of ratios, proportions, crude, specific and adjusted rates; incidence and prevalence; defining health and health status; assessing the health of a community using selected indicators of health status; and preparing, analyzing and interpreting various types of data and of presentation tools, including tables, graphs and charts.

If you are a beginning practitioner or would like to refresh your knowledge of the fundamentals of epidemiology you are encouraged to take the first three Introductory Modules (Epi 1: Basic Epidemiological Concepts; Epi 2: Measurement of Health Status and Epi 3: Epidemiological Methods) before registering for this module.

Objectives and competencies

On completion of this module, you will have:

• Increased knowledge of the principles and practices of contemporary public health surveillance.
• Enhanced skills related to the practice of public health surveillance.

Successful completion of this module contributes to the attainment of the following core competencies:

• 1.1 Demonstrate knowledge about the following concepts: the health status of populations, inequities in health, the determinants of health and illness, strategies for health promotion, disease and injury prevention and health protection, as well as the factors that influence the delivery and use of health services.
• 1.2 Demonstrate knowledge about the history, structure and interaction of public health and health care services at local, provincial/territorial, national, and international levels.
• 1.3 Apply the public health sciences to practice.
• 1.4 Use evidence and research to inform health policies and programs.

• 2.1 Recognize that a health concern or issue exists.
• 2.2 Identify relevant and appropriate sources of information, including community assets and resources.
• 2.3 Collect, store, retrieve and use accurate and appropriate information on public health issues.
• 2.4 Analyze information to determine appropriate implications, uses, gaps and limitations.
• 2.5 Determine the meaning of information, considering the current ethical, political, scientific, socio-cultural and economic contexts.
• 2.6 Recommend specific actions based on the analysis of information.

• 3.1 Describe selected policy and program options to address a specific public health issue. 
• 3.2 Describe the implications of each option, especially as they apply to the determinants of health and recommend or decide on a course of action.
• 3.6 Evaluate an action, policy or program.

• 6.1 Communicate effectively with individuals, families, groups, communities and colleagues.
• 6.2 Interpret information for professional, non-professional and community audiences.
• 6.4 Use current technology to communicate effectively.

• 7.3 Utilize public health ethics to manage self, others, information, and resources.

The Learning Process

This module is divided into five lessons, and includes assignments and discussion forum activities. Each lesson ends with a self-assessment test. You will have eight weeks to complete the 24-33 hours of work required (about 3-5 hours per week is suggested; see the learning schedule below).

A trained online facilitator, knowledgeable in public health, is assigned to your group to provide support and guidance. The facilitator is available to answer content-related questions, provide feedback on assignments, and encourage discussion among participants through discussion forums.

SUR 1 Learning Schedule

Work	Schedule	Time
Lesson 1 Review of Public Health Surveillance Introduction Discussion Activity Assignment 1: Safeguards and surveillance systems Self-assessment Lesson 1	Week 1 and 2	3 - 5 hours
Lesson 2 Overview of Public Health Surveillance Systems Discussion Activity 1: Surveillance Systems Self-assessment Lesson 2	Weeks 2, 3 and 4	6 - 8 hours
Lesson 3: Analysis, and  Interpretation Discussion Activity 2: Examples of sources of error & data limitations Assignment 2: Cancer surveillance Self-assessment Lesson 3	Weeks 4, 5 and 6	8 - 11hours
Lesson 4 Dissemination of Information and Surveillance Products Assignment 3: Surveillance product critical evaluation Discussion Activity 3: Success stories: information dissemination Self-assessment Lesson 4	Week 6, 7 and 8	5 - 6 hours
Lesson 5 Discussion Activity 4: Learning summary Self-assessment Lesson 5 Wrap -up	Week 8	2 – 3 hours

Lessons

The lessons in this module build on the basic principles of public health surveillance presented in Lesson #4 in the Basic Epidemiological Concepts Module (EPI 1). A mix of text, figures and links to websites is utilized to drill deeper into:

• A review of public health surveillance principles, definitions, types, objectives, uses, the steps in the surveillance cycle and discussion of ethical and legal considerations.
• An overview of the characteristics, strengths and limitations of some of the public health surveillance systems in Canada and Internationally.
• Discussing the integration, analysis and interpretation of public health surveillance data and the key concepts and basic principles in the dissemination of public health surveillance information in both outbreak and non-outbreak situations.
• Examining some of the major surveillance products of Canadian and International surveillance and some of the recent trends and developments and approaches to public health surveillance.

The emphasis is on infectious disease surveillance products as these are the most highly developed. However, references and links are made to surveillance products in the areas of chronic diseases, injury, preventive practices and other developing areas.

Discussion Forums

Discussion forums are integral to the module. Messages can be posted and read on the forum system whenever convenient -24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Assignments

Assignments feature in all the modules, allowing you to reflect on the module content and to apply some of the concepts and principles to your work as a public health practitioner. The assignments in this module focus on:

1. Application of concepts related to safeguarding data.
2. Interpretation of disease rates and identification of factors that may influence rates.
3. Critical review of surveillance products.

Self-assessments

Following each lesson you will be able to complete a short quiz to evaluate your understanding of the subject matter presented within each lesson. You will receive automatic feedback on your performance.

Requirements

Successful completion of this module requires you to:

1. Complete all activities within the prescribed time frame for each.
2. Receive a satisfactory rating for all assignments.
3. Participate in each discussion forum.
4. Complete the final feedback survey questionnaire.

Participants receive a certificate from the Public Health Agency of Canada upon successful completion of the Module.

Registration information is available online.

Purpose

This module builds on the basic concepts of communication, outlined briefly in the SUR1 Module: Introduction to Surveillance. Learning materials focus on the central elements of communication, the ethical principles and approaches in relation to it and offer suggestions for communicating surveillance data effectively – one of the essential steps of the surveillance cycle. You will explore a range of communication strategies and ways of working that will ensure your data triggers appropriate action and impact.

Prerequisites

There are no prerequisites to the module but you will want to have a basic understanding of the fundamentals of epidemiology, the basic principles of public health surveillance and an understanding of high school mathematics. You will also have some experience and knowledge in the utilization of ratios, proportions, crude, specific and adjusted rates; incidence and prevalence;defining health and health status; assessing the health of a community using selected indicators of health status; preparing, analyzing and interpreting various types of data and of presentation tools, including tables, graphs and charts in your work as a public health practitioner.

If you are a beginning practitioner or would like to refresh your knowledge of the fundamentals of epidemiology, you are encouraged to take the first three Introductory Epidemiology modules before registering for this Module. They are:

• Epi 1: Basic Epidemiological Concepts
• Epi 2: Measurement of Health Status
• Epi 3: Epidemiological Methods

If you are new to this online learning environment, you are required to complete the Desire2Learn (D2L) Technology Orientation - an On-Line Guided Tour that will help you learn the technical nuances of navigating through the Modules.

Objectives and competencies

Upon completion of the module you will be able to:

• Identify the central elements of communication and their use in public health.
• Understand the important considerations when communicating risk to the public.
• Identify an ethical approach to the release or communication of sensitive health data;.
• Identify key factors for communicating public health data in a manner that will be understood by the audience.
• Describe the general components of a scientific article or report.
• Discuss the role of a health professional when working with mass media.
• Identify main considerations for writing press releases.
• Choose appropriate uses for figures when presenting public health related data.
• Analyze the need for using a table as a preferred figure when presenting public health data.
• Understand appropriate uses for graphs when presenting public health data.
• Identify when appropriate to use maps for presenting public health data.

Successful completion of this module contributes to the attainment of the following core competencies:

• 2.5 Determine the meaning of information, considering the current ethical, political, scientific, socio-cultural and economic contexts.

• 5.3 Apply culturally-relevant and appropriate approaches with people from diverse cultural, socioeconomic and educational backgrounds, and persons of all ages, genders, health status, sexual orientations and abilities.

• 6.1 Communicate effectively with individuals, families, groups, communities and colleagues.
• 6.2 Interpret information for professional, non-professional and community audiences.
• 6.3 Mobilize individuals and communities by using appropriate media, community resources and social marketing techniques.
• 6.4 Use current technology to communicate effectively.

• 7.3 Utilize public health ethics to manage self, others, information, and resources.

The Learning Process

This module is divided into six lessons, including assignments and discussion forum activities. Each lesson ends with a self-assessment test. You will have eight weeks to complete the 30-36 hours of work required (about 3-5 hours per week is suggested; see the learning schedule below).

A trained online facilitator, knowledgeable in public health, is assigned to your group to provide support and guidance. The facilitator is available to answer content-related questions, provide feedback on assignments, and encourage discussion among participants through discussion forums.

The Desire2Learn (D2L) On-Line Guided Tour will help you learn the technical nuances of navigating through the Modules.

SUR 2 Learning Schedule

Work	Schedule	Time
Lesson 1 Overview of Communication Introduction Discussion Activity Assignment 1: Table analysis Part 1 Discussion Activity 1: Communication and ethics Self-assessment Lesson 1	Weeks 1 and 2	4 - 6 hours
Lesson 2 Communicating Health Data Clearly Discussion Activity 2: Communicating Health Data Clearly Assignment 2: Table analysis Part 2 Self-assessment Lesson 2	Weeks 2 and 3	6 - 7 hours
Lesson 3  Introduction to Data Sources of health information Assignment 3: Table analysis Part 3 Self-assessment Lesson 3	Weeks 3 and 4	6 - 7 hours
Lesson 4 Introduction to Data Presentation Discussion Activity 3: Tables and figures Self-assessment Lesson 4	Week 5	3 - 4 hours
Lesson 5 Guidelines for Tables and Figures Assignment 4: Effective data communication	Weeks 6 and 7	6 – 7 hours
Lesson 6 Guidelines for Graphs and Maps as Figures Discussion Activity 4: Using maps effectively Wrap -up	Weeks 7 and 8	5 – 7 hours

Lessons

The lessons in this module utilize a mixture of text, figures and links to websites to:

• Identify the central elements of communication and their use in public health.
• Identify ethical approaches to the release or communication of sensitive health data.
• Provide guidelines to improve writing so that your reports will be understood.
• Discuss how to start writing a scientific article or report and/or a press release.
• Discuss how to go about structuring your information for presentation.
• Provide an in depth overview of presenting data using figures.

Discussion Forums

Discussion forums are integral to the module. Messages can be posted and read on the forum system whenever convenient - 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Assignments

Assignments feature in all the modules, allowing you to reflect on the module content and to apply some of the concepts and principles to your work as a public health practitioner. The four assignments in this module ask you to:

• Apply the concepts of target audiences and messaging for target audiences.
• Practice developing skills in communicating information from public health data.
• Apply rules and guidelines for writing press releases.
• Consolidate the key concepts of effective communication for public health by critiquing some existing materials.

Assignments are limited to one page or two at the most. Your facilitator will review, grade and provide individual feedback for each assignment. An incomplete assignment is returned with your facilitator’s comments and a request to resubmit.

Self-assessments

Following each lesson you will be able to complete a short quiz to evaluate your understanding of the subject matter presented within each lesson. You will receive automatic feedback on your performance.

Requirements

Successful completion of this module requires you to:

1. Complete all activities within the prescribed time frame for each.
2. Receive a satisfactory rating for all assignments.
3. Participate in each discussion forum.
4. Complete the final feedback survey questionnaire.

Participants receive a certificate from the Public Health Agency of Canada upon successful completion of the Module.

Registration information is available online.

Purpose

The overall purpose of this module is to give you a basic understanding of statistics so you can read articles and do simple statistical analyses of common public health data. Learning materials focus on providing a common language and understanding of statistical concepts and not detailed mathematics. If you have already taken one or more courses in statistics, you may wish to use this module as a refresher.

Completing this module does not make you a statistician nor does it exempt you from ever consulting one. The intent is to provide you with the language and basic concepts of statistics and to enable you to know when and how to communicate with a statistician in a way that is beneficial to both of you.

Prerequisites

EPI 1, Basic Epidemiological Concepts, is the only prerequisite for the module.

You will need a basic understanding of the fundamentals of epidemiology and an understanding of high school mathematics. You will be working with rates, and so will require some knowledge in the use of ratios, proportions, crude, specific and adjusted rates; incidence and prevalence; defining health and health status; assessing the health of a community using selected indicators of health status; and preparing, analyzing and interpreting various types of data and of presentation tools, including tables, graphs and charts.

If you are a beginning practitioner or would like to refresh your knowledge of the fundamentals of epidemiology you are encouraged to take the first three Introductory Modules (Epi 1: Basic Epidemiological Concepts; Epi 2: Measurement of Health Status and Epi 3: Epidemiological Methods) before registering for this module.

Objectives

Upon completion of the module, you will:

• Have a basic knowledge of statistics, including being able to discuss the uses and limitations of commonly used statistical analyses.
• Be able to apply simple statistical procedures where appropriate. (for example, not to  use quantitative statistics for qualitative research).
• Be able to use statistical principles in order to critically appraise an article from a quantitative perspective.

The Learning Process

This module is divided into seven lessons, including assignments and discussion forum activities. Each lesson ends with a self-assessment test. You will have eight weeks to complete the 26-34 hours of work required (a commitment of 3-5 hours per week is suggested; see the learning schedule below).

A trained online facilitator, knowledgeable in public health, is assigned to your group to provide support and guidance. The facilitator is available to answer content-related questions, provide feedback on assignments, and encourage discussion among participants through discussion forums.

STA 1 Learning Schedule

Work	Schedule	Time
Lesson 1 Main Concepts in Statistics Introduction Discussion Activity Assignment 1: Applying Bradford Hill Criteria for causation Self-assessment Lesson 1	Weeks 1 and 2	6 - 8 hours
Lesson 2 The Language of Statistics Discussion Activity 1: Evaluation Self-assessment Lesson 2	Week 3	4 - 5 hours
Lesson 3 Collecting and Understanding the Data Discussion Activity 2: Research question Assignment 2: Data presentation Self-assessment Lesson 3	Week 4	4 - 5 hours
Lesson 4 Descriptive Statistics Discussion Activity 3: Interpreting findings Self-assessment Lesson 4	Week 5	4 - 5 hours
Lesson 5 Research Question and Hypothesis Testing Discussion Activity 3: Hypotheses Assignment 3: Research question, variables and hypotheses Self-assessment Lesson 5	Week 6	4 – 5 hours
Lesson 6 Statistical Analysis Discussion Activity 5: Types of analyses Self-assessment Lesson 6	Week 7	2 -3 hours
Lesson 7 Interpretation - From Statistics Back to English Discussion Activity 6: Why do we use biostatistics? Wrap -up	Week 8	2 – 3 hours

Lessons

The lessons in this module can be seen as iterative steps; you may need to go back and forth a few times. You can also view the lessons as a spiral where you repeatedly visit the same lessons but at an increasingly higher level of complexity. Each lesson is a mixture of text, figures, and links to websites, introducing you to the following concepts:

• Definitions: Statistics, clinical versus statistical significance, cause and effect, sampling, probability.
• Language of statistics: Validity, bias, random error and sample size.
• Collecting and understanding data: Research question, data collection, measures, types of data and scales.
• Descriptive statistics: Measures of centrality and dispersion, the normal distribution, confidence intervals.
• Research question and hypothesis testing: Choosing the best test, t-test, ANOVA,CHI square, linear regression.
• Interpretation of statistics.

Discussion Forums

Discussion forums are integral to the module. Messages can be posted and read on the forum system whenever convenient - 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Assignments

Assignments feature in all the modules, allowing you to reflect on the module content and to apply some of the concepts and principles to your work as a public health practitioner.

The assignments in this module ask you to work with selected concepts and apply them to the data in three different scenarios.

• To determine if a causal association exists by critically analyzing the content of a published article using the Bradford Hills Criteria.
• To identify appropriate options to present data and demonstrate an understanding of the comprehensive application of data in a graphic form.
• To clearly identify a research question, variables and hypotheses based on a realistic scenario.

Self-assessments

Following each lesson you will be able to complete a short quiz to evaluate your understanding of the subject matter presented within each lesson. You will receive automatic feedback on your performance.

Requirements

Successful completion of this module requires you to:

1. Complete all activities within the prescribed time frame for each.
2. Receive a satisfactory rating for all assignments.
3. Participate in each discussion forum.
4. Complete the final feedback survey questionnaire.

Participants receive a certificate from the Public Health Agency of Canada upon successful completion of the module.

Registration information is available online.

Purpose

Public health practitioners are increasingly applying an evidence-based approach to program planning, implementation and evaluation in order to respond to new and ongoing challenges. This module will introduce you to concepts associated with evidence-based public health practice. Learning materials focus on strategies for collecting and appraising evidence and the application of best practices using established resources and proven methodologies.

Prerequisites

EPI 1, Basic Epidemiological Concepts, is the only prerequisite for the module.

You will need a basic understanding of the fundamentals of epidemiology and an understanding of high school mathematics. You will be working with rates, and so will require some knowledge in the use of ratios, proportions, crude, specific and adjusted rates; incidence and prevalence; defining health and health status; assessing the health of a community using selected indicators of health status; and preparing, analyzing and interpreting various types of data and of presentation tools, including tables, graphs and charts.

If you are a beginning practitioner or would like to refresh your knowledge of the fundamentals of epidemiology, you are encouraged to take the first three Introductory Modules (Epi 1: Basic Epidemiological Concepts; Epi 2: Measurement of Health Status and Epi 3: Epidemiological Methods) before registering for this module.

It is recommended that you complete the self-directed module PHP4: Introduction to Literature Searching either before starting the module or in conjunction with the module. PHP4 is not facilitated, and takes between 4 and 6 hours to complete.

Objectives and competencies

Upon completion of this module, you will be able to:

• Understand and describe the steps of evidence-based practice as applied to the practice of public health.
• Understand and apply the principles of good research questions in formulating an answerable question.
• Understand how to locate systematic reviews and primary studies of health promotion and public health intervention literature.
• Identify and describe the different types of evidence (systematic reviews, primary/secondary research).
• Identify the steps in assessing the quality of health promotion and public health primary studies.
• Identify and describe systematic reviews, including the advantages and disadvantages of this methodology for reviewing research.
• Appraise the quality of a systematic review of a public health or health promotion intervention.

Successful completion of this module contributes to your attainment of the following core competencies:

• 1.1 Demonstrate knowledge about the following concepts: the health status of populations, inequities in health, the determinants of health and illness, strategies for health promotion, disease and injury prevention, and health protection, as well as the factors that influence the delivery and use of health services.
• 1.2 Demonstrate knowledge about the history, structure and interaction of public health and health care services at local, provincial/territorial, national, and international levels.
• 1.3 Apply the public health sciences to practice.
• 1.4 Use evidence and research to inform health policies and programs.

• 2.1 Recognize that a health concern or issue exists.
• 2.2 Identify relevant and appropriate sources of information, including community assets and resources.
• 2.3 Collect, store, retrieve and use accurate and appropriate information on public health issues.
• 2.4 Analyze information to determine appropriate implications, uses, gaps and limitations.
• 2.5 Determine the meaning of information, considering the current ethical, political, scientific, socio-cultural and economic contexts.
• 2.6 Recommend specific actions based on the analysis of information.

• 3.1 Describe selected policy and program options to address a specific public health issue.
• 3.2 Describe the implications of each option, especially as they apply to the determinants of health and recommend or decide on a course of action.
• 3.3 Develop a plan to implement a course of action taking into account relevant evidence, legislation, emergency planning procedures, regulations and policies.
• 3.4 Implement a policy or program and/or take appropriate action to address a specific public health issue.
• 3.6 Evaluate an action, policy or program

The Learning Process

This module is divided into seven lessons, including assignments and discussion forum activities. Each lesson ends with a self-assessment test. You will have eight weeks to complete the 24 to 38 hours of work required (a commitment of 3-5 hours per week is suggested; see the learning schedule below).

A trained online facilitator, knowledgeable in public health, is assigned to your group to provide support and guidance. The facilitator is available to answer content-related questions, provide feedback on assignments, and encourage discussion among participants through discussion forums.

PHP 2 Learning Schedule

Work	Schedule	Time
Lesson 1 Introduction to Evidence Based Public Health Introduction Discussion Activity Discussion Activity 1: Public health program or policy implementation Self-assessment Lesson 1	Week 1	3 - 4 hours
Lesson 2 The Research Question Assignment 1: Develop and answerable question Self-assessment Lesson 2	Week 2	3 - 5 hours
Lesson 3 Searching the Literature Assignment 2: Describe question components Self-assessment Lesson 3	Week 3	2 - 5 hours
Lesson 4: Evidence Discussion Activity 2: Evidence collection and analysis Self-assessment Lesson 4	Week 4	3 - 5 hours
Lesson 5 Critical Appraisal of Evidence Discussion Activity 3: Applying critical appraisal criteria to evaluate evidence Self-assessment Lesson 5	Week 5	3 – 5 hours
Lesson 6 Reviews Discussion Activity 4: Evidence-based recommendations from CDC Assignment 3: Systematic reviews Self-assessment Lesson 6	Week 6	3 – 5 hours
Lesson 7 Systematic Reviews Discussion Activity 5: Evidence-based intervention Self-assessment Lesson 7	Week 7	3 – 5 hours
Wrap -up	Week 8	2 – 3 hours

Lessons

The lessons in this module utilize a mix of text, figures and links to websites to introduce the types of research reviews, the advantages and limitations of each type, the rationale and methodology applied in conducting a critical appraisal and the application of systematic reviews in the public health realm. There are many strategies for identifying, evaluating and incorporating evidence. This module will walk you through a six step strategy to incorporate evidence into your public health practice.

Assignments

Assignments feature in all the modules, allowing you to reflect on the module content and to apply some of the concepts and principles to your work as a public health practitioner.

The three assignments in this module ask you to select a topic or subject you would like to know more about or an area you would like to modify your own practice and to utilize the PICOT Framework (Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome and Type of Study) to practice:

• Gaining knowledge and experience in recognizing and developing an answerable question.
• Applying some of the techniques and strategies for searching for evidence for a research question.
• Gaining experience in identifying and ranking possible interventions and in assessing the evidence from systemic reviews. 

Assignments usually take no more than one or two pages. Your facilitator will review, grade and provide individual feedback for each assignment. An incomplete assignment is returned with your facilitator’s comments and a request to resubmit.

Discussion Forums

Discussion forums are integral to the module. Messages can be posted and read on the forum system whenever convenient - 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Self-assessments

Following each lesson you will be able to complete a short quiz to evaluate your understanding of the subject matter presented within each lesson. You will receive automatic feedback on your performance.

Requirements

Successful completion of this module requires you to:

1. Complete all activities within the prescribed time frame for each.
2. Receive a satisfactory rating for all assignments.
3. Participate in each discussion forum.
4. Complete the final feedback survey questionnaire.

Participants receive a certificate from the Public Health Agency of Canada upon successful completion of the Module.

Registration information is available online.