Introduction to Health Studies

Social, economic, cultural, environmental and psychological factors affect the health of people living in Aotearoa New Zealand. In this course, students develop strategies for gathering information about causes of ill health, investigate effects of ill health, and evaluate the effectiveness of health-related policies and interventions. During the second part of the course expert guest lecturers introduce their research on mental well-being, adolescent health, and problematic substance use. Students use local and international research to investigate a health problem and present that research in a well-structured, well-referenced report.

15 points

Introduction to Youth Leadership: Leading the Self

What is the role of 'the self' in youth and community leadership? What are the personal dispositions required for youth and community leadership and how might these be nurtured within, for and by the self, and/or by others? In this course, students will explore self-leadership from contemporary psychological, philosophical, cultural, and/or any other theoretical perspective/s relevant to their situation and to contemporary Aotearoa. Kaupapa Maori approaches will be explored, as part of which students will be required to have experienced a stay on the noho marae (or alternative ).

15 points

Building Resilience

This course is designed as an introduction to the concept of mental health. It examines concepts of mental health and resilience and considers these in relation to the determinants of health. The course develops students' understanding of models of best practice in mental health education and promotion. Students will explore a range of mental health issues and demonstrate a range of strategies designed to enhance their own and others' mental health.

15 points