Entry requirements

A Bachelor's degree, equivalent to a Swedish degree of at least 180 credits. Proficiency in English.

Learning outcomes

The course aims to provide knowledge of how innovative processes in interdisciplinary teams can be used to solve need-based problems. Focus is on application of serious games – beyond pure entertainment - to promote changes in health care, self management, learning and behavior, for example through training, competition and education.

After completing the course the participant should be able to:

- apply principles of an innovation process to identify, formulate and solve problems?

- practice a model of idea generation and development of solutions based on the needs and values of the target group

- develop effective and creative teams based on the understanding of how team composition, leadership and self-knowledge influence success

-value and articulate how serious games can be applied in the healthcare system, to improve learning, change behavior and to develop the resilience as a tool to maintain health and quality of life

-interpret, critically evaluate, synthesize and communicate scientific findings and other information relevant to the subjects of the course orally and in writing

Content

In the perspective of current and future challenges for health and health care, this two-week course will discuss innovative processes as a tool to improve health care services and enhance self-management of health. The course will introduce methods and terminology of innovation and entrepreneurship and how innovative thinking can be applied to understand a problem, generate an idea, outline a goal and find a creative solution of value for the end-user.

The prerequisites (e.g. understanding group dynamics, leadership and decision making) to run projects and work in multidisciplinary teams will be based on self-reflection and identification of competences and skills. Workshops using agile project models will be practised on need-based challenges provided by e.g. the health care sector. The course will integrate the basics of game design with the practical application of games and simulations as tools to address the assigned challenges. Game design will also be used as a pedagogic tool to enhance the four pillars of learning - critical thinking, communication, collaboration and creativity. Psychological knowledge about behavior and attitudes will also be discussed. In addition, the course will include basic concepts of Lean Startup. At the end of the course the groups will present and defend their ideas and/or solutions to invited innovators, petitioners and clients.

Instruction

The course is given at Uppsala University, Campus Gotland during two weeks in mid-August. Teaching is highly student centered with a focus on seminars, team-work and individual studies. Instructors will include academic teachers, game designers and invited speakers, as well as representatives from the health care sector, regional organisation and innovation support facilities. The course also includes an on-line module to be completed prior to the two weeks on campus

Assessment

Formative assessments will take place at group exercises throughout the course. Both oral presentations and written assessments will be performed at the end of the course. Preparatory assignments and literature readings will be assessed on the first day of the campus course. To pass, active participation in seminars and group exercises are mandatory and all assessments must be approved.