Using film to enrich the student experience.

Abstract

The use of popular science textbooks and film was explored to enhance the learning opportunities and experiences of level 6 students within the degrees of Biological Sciences and Ecology and Wildlife Conservation. This approach was applied to the unit Parasitology and Epidemiology. Alongside the standard peer-reviewed publication-based delivery, the students were encouraged to read and discuss (in seminars), relevant public health and parasitology based popular science textbooks. Delivery and assessment were further enriched using the film (Parasite by Bong Jonn-ho) to discuss the topic of parasitology within popular culture and draw parallels to societal attitudes and trends. This encouraged students to engage with literature on film and social sciences, with impressive analysis and critical thinking displayed in their work. The feedback on material accessibility and increased understanding was very positive and reflected in high Mid-Unit Student Experience (MUSE) survey scores.