WEEK 12: WRAP-UP SESSION

This is the final week of the module and will be an opportunity to review the main aims and objectives of your learning over the past ten weeks.

Wicked Problems and Wicked Solutions 

The underlying concept and framework that we've introduced in this module is that of the wicked problem, and you've been introduced to a number of these over the weeks. Whilst it may seem as though Covid 19 is the most pressing wicked problem, in fact there are multiple wicked problems intersecting in the current age, all of which require rather urgent resolution (inequality, ecological breakdown, pandemics, etc). 

To remind you of the key elements of a wicked problem, take a look at this clear summary by Adam Weinberg in The Hill.

Once you become aware of the 'wickedness' of life, you will start to see it everywhere! 

READING ONE

This very short reading by Helen Walls argues that a wicked problem requires a wicked response. What is the response that she proposes? Do you agree?

Fake news, alternative facts and post-truth

We also introduced you to these worrying global developments. Although Trump has been defeated, his particular populist brand of politics endures and, in many corners of the world, is getting stronger. Now, more than ever, we should recognise the important role that science plays in society, even as it is repeatedly undermined and frustrated by various actors.

READING TWO

I was emailed yesterday an open letter from a group of eminent scientists. It is a very powerful crie de coue pleading with its readers to take science seriously - or pay a terrible price. It hasn't been published yet but see what you think - it is only short but really packs a punch. I've put a pdf in the readings folder.

There is a sense of urgency in global health today, not least in the context of climate change and ecological crisis. I hope that this module has inspired you to see the many contemporary global health challenges that we now face as challenges that you can do something about!

SOCIAL MEDIA

Social media and increasingly sophisticated computer algorithms are able to exploit many of the emotions and character traits that make us human - anxiety, insecurity, vanity, sociability and the desire to share. The critical skills that you have honed on your program will stand you in good stead. I was inspired by our week on social media to write a blogpost on the documentary The Social Dilemma - thank you for your inspiration!

Remember what Daniel Kahneman refers to as thinking fast and slow - we often think fast but sometimes need to slow down, recognise our vast range of cognitive biases, in order to make the right decisions! 

SKILLS

In this module, we've encouraged you to think and write for different audiences. The blogpost allowed you the opportunity to write creatively and in an informal voice. This is all part of communicating effectively. You also had an opportunity to present online, which was a novel twist. Dami and I were VERY impressed at how well you coordinated your presentations and adapted to the new online environment.

We've really enjoyed working through the module with you. We hope you have enjoyed it too. Enjoy your Christmas break :) 

Andrew and Dami