Course Description

Welcome to "HIV & AIDS in the United States: Science, Society, and Culture," an engaging and multidisciplinary course offered by DavidsonNext. This seven-week journey will take you through the intricate landscape of HIV/AIDS, exploring its scientific, social, and cultural dimensions in the United States. By blending insights from both the arts and sciences, this course offers a unique perspective on one of the most significant health challenges of our time.

What Students Will Learn

• Basic analysis techniques for literary and scientific texts
• The shared processes of knowledge creation in science and art
• A comprehensive overview of HIV/AIDS scientific and artistic history
• The impact of language on shaping ideas about HIV/AIDS
• The importance of visual representation in advancing HIV/AIDS concepts
• The evolution of individual experiences living with HIV/AIDS over three decades
• Current debates and developments in HIV/AIDS research and treatment
• Interpretation skills for "cultural artifacts" related to HIV/AIDS
• The potential for arts and sciences to inform each other in addressing global health challenges

Prerequisites

This introductory-level course has no specific prerequisites. Students from all backgrounds are welcome to join, as long as they have an interest in the subject matter and a willingness to engage with diverse perspectives.

Course Coverage

• The intersection of science, society, and culture in the context of HIV/AIDS
• Analysis of literary and scientific texts related to HIV/AIDS
• The role of visual arts in HIV/AIDS representation and understanding
• Personal narratives and experiences of individuals living with HIV/AIDS
• Historical and contemporary developments in HIV/AIDS research and treatment
• Cultural artifacts and their significance in shaping public perception of HIV/AIDS
• The evolving language surrounding HIV/AIDS in scientific and artistic contexts
• Current debates and future directions in HIV/AIDS studies

Who This Course Is For

• Students interested in public health, social sciences, or humanities
• Healthcare professionals seeking a broader understanding of HIV/AIDS
• Artists and writers exploring health-related themes
• Individuals affected by HIV/AIDS, either personally or through their communities
• Anyone curious about the interplay between science, culture, and society

Real-World Application of Skills

• Enhancing critical thinking and analysis skills applicable to many fields
• Improving communication about complex health issues
• Developing a more nuanced understanding of public health challenges
• Fostering empathy and understanding for those affected by HIV/AIDS
• Informing policy discussions and advocacy efforts related to HIV/AIDS
• Inspiring creative projects that bridge art and science
• Applying interdisciplinary approaches to other global challenges