Time Schedule:
Andrew Dannenberg
ENV H 590
Seattle Campus
In-depth study of a current environmental health topic.
Class description
This interdisciplinary course focuses on the increasing recognition that the design of communities can impact human health. Community designs that feature parks, sidewalks, trails, public transit, and connectivity among destinations can encourage physical activity, help prevent obesity and its associated health consequences, and reduce dependence on automobiles whose use contributes to air pollution, motor vehicle crashes, and pedestrian injuries. Increased attention to the health implications of the built environment has led to various innovative solutions, such as mixed-use Smart Growth developments, investments in bicycling and pedestrian infrastructure, and the use of health impact assessments to convey health information to community decision-makers.
Student learning goals
Explain how the built environment impacts public health both positively and negatively
Critique the literature regarding health and built environment including its strengths and weaknesses
Describe the methods used to assess the built environment and its impact on health
Describe the options available to promote healthy community design decisions
Summarize the benefits of and barriers to working in an interdisciplinary environment
General method of instruction
Recommended preparation
No prerequisites
Class assignments and grading
