Week 2
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2. (9/12) Fundamental ideas and basic
vocabulary
Idea 1: Non-specialists need to become comfortable with the
fundamental ideas and basic vocabulary of epidemiology in order to
converse intelligently with specialists in epidemiology and
biostatistics. One way to move in that direction is to practice making
the ideas accessible to the layperson.
Idea 2: In advising on the most effective measures to be taken to
improve the health of a population, epidemiologists may focus on
different determinants of the disease than a doctor would when faced
with sick or high-risk individuals.
- Questions on syllabus and course mechanics, including coaching each
other on use of wiki.
- Explain Rose 1985 to each other, identifying key concepts and
questions.
- Review of statistical concepts and basic epidemiological ideas
(mini-lecture building on questions arising from first reading of
Gordis or Coggon)
Reading: Rose (1985), Davey-Smith (2001), Gordis chapters 1, 3-6 (+
7 in 2004 edition), backed up by Kirkwood 2003 (esp. 136-213) and
wikipedia entries.
(Optional homework: Locate a commentary on Rose and add an annotated
reference to the wiki for Week 2.)
Copyright ©2010 Peter Taylor, Ph.D.
