STS 5051 - Foundations of Ethics

Spring. 3 credits. Letter grades only.

Offered in Qatar.

P. Rodriguez del Pozo.

Aimed firstly at introducing students to the moral dimension of medicine, and secondly at fostering reasoning and problem-solving competencies in clinical ethics, the course combines a discussion seminar format with a number of weekly clinically-oriented activities that range from problem-based-learning exercises, to laboratory exercises, to in-hospital observerships. It will prepare premedical students for growingly demanding integrated medical curricula, by developing the corresponding knowledge, attitudes, skills and habits. The format promotes deliberation and helps students develop analytical attitudes and skills through observation and experience. It explores topics ranging from the nature of medical knowledge, to the world of the patient, to the family of the patient’s dynamics, to the world of the doctor and the hospital, to the morality of human subject research.