Learning by doing: A competency-based approach to the MPH core course in biostatistics

Gjelsvik, Annie

Biostatistics can be a challenging component of the MPH curriculum, given that students come to MPH programs with diverse mathematical backgrounds. In 2011 the Brown University School of Public Health developed and implemented an integrated biostatistics and data analysis two-semester course sequence primarily for Master of Public Health students. Prior to this student feedback and evaluations indicated that separation of biostatistics concepts from real-world application made it difficult to learn and retain the material.

The integrated course was developed based on competencies and uses project-based learning. The course is co-taught by a biostatistics and epidemiology professor team and focuses on statistical principles as well as the applied skills necessary to answer public health questions using data. Students develop and answer a public health question using one of four real world data sets (for example Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance or National Survey of Children’s Health). There are weekly biostatistics lectures and data analysis lectures. Lecture content is integrated into weekly labs in which students apply skills and obtain analysis help with individual projects.

In the first semester students develop a research question using their assigned database, operationalize research concepts and conduct bivariate analyses. In the second semester students continue their research project by incorporating multiple regression techniques into the research question developed during the first semester. In the Spring findings are presented as an abstract, poster, and manuscript-like paper.

Student reviews in course evaluations and end-of-program MPH interviews have been very positive (in academic year 2013-2014 at least 61% of students reported the courses as very effective and at least 32% as effective in each semester). In addition, several students have used their course projects as starting points for their MPH thesis and some students have been able to present at national meetings and publish the work resulting from the courses.