AUCT 140 -- Epidemics And AIDS |
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AIDS! It has become a household word, with weekly news stories about
a cure or some new treatment. But what does AIDS have in common with the Black Plague of
the 14th century, or the cholera epidemics of the 19th century? This course looks at how
society reacts to an epidemic, how society studies and tracks new diseases, and how each
of us is now involved in the AIDS epidemic.
 Collage by U of H Student, Aimee Thurber, 1996 This course covers the biology of AIDS, the medical impact of AIDS, and the lives of those infected with HIV, the virus which causes AIDS. Laboratory exercises will let students see their own blood cells, track an "epidemic," and measure antibodies, the body's defense against viruses, as well as develop their own community service projects. Students are also given the opportunity to become involved in community events related to AIDS. Join a fund raising march, an awareness event, or even volunteer at an AIDS shelter -- be involved! Course readings may include: The Biology of AIDS by Fan, The Plague by Camus, And the Band Played On by Shilts, as well as other current works from journals. Guest lecturers typically include and epidemiologist involved in public health issues, an expert on legal issues related to AIDS, a media consultant involved in public education programs, physicians involved in the treatment of AIDS patients, and people with AIDS willing to share their stories with us. Classes are conducted as both large group presentations and small discussion groups with experienced faculty from disciplines ranging from biology and health care to English and sociology.
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