Assignment Spotlight: Virtual Neighborhood Walk

I recently read an article in the Journal of Nursing Education that described a fun activity involving a virtual neighborhood walk to help students identify social determinants of health. I'd love to share this assignment and my thoughts on how to incorporate this into an online course. 

A recent article entitled, An Innovative Incorporation of the Social Determinants of Health, the author describes an activity where students engaged in a virtual neighborhood walk using Google maps. Students then performed a windshield survey and accessed additional resources to inform their observations. They then made decisions about how different environments impact health.

This activity could easily be incorporated into an online course by providing students with a list of resources (websites, articles, etc.) to help them identify social determinants of health in their own community. Students could then share their findings and recommendations with the class via discussion boards or blogs.

This is a great way to help students learn about the social determinants of health and how they can impact individual's health. In my own health policy course, I can see how this activity would help students understand the complex issues surrounding health and healthcare. Students in my course complete a windshield survey, however, I can see how using online resources, students can gather even more information than doing a traditional survey.

I'd LOVE to hear your ideas of how you can use this assignment in your online courses. Share your thoughts, experiences and ideas in The Online Educator Facebook Group by clicking the link HERE. 

Would you like me to spotlight one of your assignments? Share your assignment HERE for an opportunity to be spotlighted in The Online Educator Blog.