In June 2021, a doctor in Canada diagnosed a woman in her 70s with “climate change.” She had trouble breathing, was dehydrated, and lived in a trailer without air conditioning during a severe heat wave with temperatures soaring to 40 °C.
In another case from February 2013, a nine-year-old girl in south London died from an asthma attack. She had been hospitalized over 25 times in three years. A 2020 report identified air pollution as a contributing factor to her death, highlighting failures in reducing pollution levels and in informing her family about the dangers of air pollution on asthma.
These stories represent the real impact of climate change on health. Many experts agree that climate change is one of the biggest health threats today. Medical professionals, schools, and students recognize the need to understand the connection between climate and health.
To teach about climate change effectively, traditional methods might not be enough. A new approach called the “flipped classroom” is gaining popularity. In this model, students prepare before class by reading or watching materials, allowing classroom time to focus on discussions and problem-solving rather than just lectures. This has shown to enhance student learning and satisfaction compared to standard teaching methods.
Small group strategies like team-based learning (TBL) also fit well with a flipped classroom. Students come prepared and engage actively in discussions, guided by instructors. This method is effective in healthcare education and helps students tackle complex topics like climate change and health together.
Climate change is complicated, often referred to as a “super wicked problem.” Small group discussions and TBL can help students better understand how climate issues connect to health outcomes, preparing them for their future roles as healthcare professionals.
To implement this approach, educators should start with current climate research when designing curricula. Clear goals should be established to ensure students grasp both the basics of climate change and the implications for their roles in healthcare. With these strategies, students will engage more effectively in discussions about climate and health.
The future of healthcare will be directly impacted by climate change, and it’s essential to prepare upcoming medical professionals for these challenges. By utilizing innovative teaching methods, we can equip them to advocate for their patients’ health and contribute to climate solutions. Understanding the relationship between climate change and health is crucial not just for medical students but also for ongoing education for current healthcare providers.
