NTDP-630 : Bone Joint and Immunology

The course is structured in a modular format and complemented with Integrative Therapeutics Laboratory with lectures, labs and onsite practice activities led by clinical faculty. In order for students to achieve the course goals and objectives, a variety of teaching methods will be applied. Students are required to participate actively in both flipped (30%) and non-flipped (70%) portions of the course to earn a passing grade. Traditional lectures will be replaced by first participating in online, blackboard assignments (Tegrity and discussion board and quizzes) before in class participation and small group discussions, role play, question, and answer sessions to reinforce didactic teachings and overall student learning. In class discussions will increase student presentation skills as they each role play to counsel patients on proper use of their prescribed medications; making optimal recommendations to physicians to alter prescription regimens and give general advise on best therapies for patients. This approach will also improve student communication skills, which have been a problem with the old approach of traditional lectures. Students will also gain/build confidence as they exercise critical thinking and interact with classmates on discussion board as well as in class discussions.