James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2001

HM2063:04

Social Views of Health Concepts in Human Movement Studies

Townsville, Cairns

26 lectures, 13 tutorials (an additional 13 hours practicals for human movement specialists and majors only). Second semester.

Staff: Dr P Horton (Townsville campus); Ms M Dinan (Cairns campus).

This subject aims to investigate the role of “health” in human movement studies, where health is considered as a social institution constructed in and by society. Interactions between the individual and their socio-cultural, physical, political and economic environments form the basis of the study. Current modern society issues and concepts of health promotion, ethics and social change are examined deepening the students’ understanding of “health”.

Learning Objectives:

  1. demonstrate an appreciation and understanding of the social view of health;
  2. acknowledge the influence of socio-cultural, physical, political and economic environments on individual and community health;
  3. examine current social health issues in Australia;
  4. develop an understanding of equity, a respect for difference and the need for supportive physical and social environments in promoting health.

Assessment by a two-hour examination (40%); research projects (60%).