Preventing and Reducing Harms from Substance Use: A Global Perspective module (GM52070)

You will develop an understanding of critical skills in synthesising current evidence, theories and perspectives to help understand how to prevent and reduce substance use and related harms among different population groups and in different contexts.

This module is delivered fully online, with discussion boards and interdisciplinary tutor support throughout.

What you will learn

In this module, you will

• Develop an understanding of global patterns of substance use and drug classifications as well as the harms from substance use to the individual and others, and impacts on society 
• Recognise theoretical, public health and political perspectives in addressing substance use and related harms as well as trauma-informed and social justice approaches to supporting diverse populations including vulnerable and marginalised groups
• Be aware of evidence-based interventions - to prevent and reduce substance use and reducing related harms at the population level and at the service level; to addressing co-occurring substance use and other health conditions (including mental health) 
• Recognise the role of health professionals and services in preventing and reducing substance use and related harms 

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the global patterns of substance use and related harms. 
• Demonstrate knowledge of theories and public health perspectives in addressing substance use and related harms. 
• Apply knowledge of approaches and evidence-based interventions to assess their suitability for different contexts. 
• Demonstrate awareness of the role of healthcare and public health professionals in addressing substance use. 
• Critically apply the knowledge acquired to inform future public health interventions to address substance use and related harms. 
• Critically evaluate the challenges to public health professionals in preventing and reducing harms from substance use in different local contexts

Assignments / assessments

• Assessment - Recorded presentation (100%)
  • You will submit a 15-minute presentation using PowerPoint (or equivalent). The aim of the assessment is for you to demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of key concepts surrounding preventing or reducing substance use and related harms in your region, country or local area. You will be expected to situate their arguments within the context of the literature, and to reflect on the challenges that public health professionals may face in implementing strategies/interventions to prevent or reduce substance use and related harms. This reflects all of the module learning outcomes. 

This module does not have a final exam.

Teaching methods / timetable

• Pre-recorded lectures
• Discussion boards for weekly peer and tutor interaction
• On-demand online resources and tutor support
• Use of technology-enhanced learning

This module is delivered fully online