Professor: Smith Course format: Lecture/Seminar Number of respondents: 20 Total Enrollment: 20

Class Composition Froshs: 10 Sophs: 10 Jrs: 0 Srs: 0 Concs: 4 Non-Concs: 8 Don't Know: 7	Instructor Average: 1.39 Course Average: 1.48

"Cost Vs Care: The Dilemma for American Medicine" is a course designed to develop students' skill in critical thinking and effective communication, both oral and written, through the exploration of the health care system. A secondary aim is for the class to gain an understanding of the concepts and values behind the various aspects of the medical field in terms of economics, politics, and ethics.

Respondents lauded the professor for his openness and passion for the subject matter and also for his clear and organized presentation of ideas. Students also liked the fact that Professor Smith allowed the discussion to take its "natural" course though some noted that sometimes his solicitation of opinions seemed oriented toward filling out his notes. Others at times also felt that the instructor had set ideas about how things should be and dismissed other takes on the issue that the students had.

The workload consisted of a three page paper, a fifteen page research paper, and the option of doing a five page paper or a volunteer project. In addition, each person had to participate in two debates. Many expressed that they devoted a lot of effort to this class and that self-motivation was required. But at the same time they were energized by the seminar-like environment of the class where the students shared responsibility for the course. The schedule alternated between lecture/discussion on Tuesday and student-planned and -led seminars on Thursday.

Almost every respondent expressed the attainment of a solid understanding of the health care system through this class. Also they were glad for the "evaluation" skills gained through various activities in which they participated.

"Cost Vs Care" promises to be an enriching experience for those who wishes to advance their rhetorical and critical skills, though an interest health care system is essential to getting the most out of this class. Combine the two and an unforgettable experience will surely be the result.

View BC/0007 in the Brown Online Course Announcement.