Dr Musarrat Maisha Reza

At Exeter College of Medicine and Health, a new bespoke module which explores the concept of decolonization in Higher Education Institutes, with a specific focus on Science and Medicine. Students investigate the extent to which Science and Medicine from the Global North as we know it today, have been largely founded on colonialism, oppression, slavery, discrimination and injustice. This forms the basis for critical analysis of key historical events [e.g. Tuskegee Experiment: the infamous Syphilis study; J Marion Sims (The Father of Modern Gynaecology) surgically experimenting on enslaved Black women] and the extent to which they perpetuate exclusion and injustice on modern day education, healthcare and clinical practice.

 

All differing viewpoints backed by research and evidence are highly welcome and recommended to enhance the vibrancy and robustness of discussions and debates. This module also enables students to reflect on the role they can play now and in future, regardless of their career paths, to dismantle systems founded on racism and oppression and contribute to an ecosystem of equality, diversity and inclusion. Through this module, students are viewed as co-creators of solutions and strategies to make Science and Medicine more inclusive and representative, which can then be integrated into the Exeter curricula.

 

The module employs both pedagogically proven flipped classroom model and small structured group learning strategy, assigning a maximum of 8 students per workshop lead. Assessments on this module are unique and creative; 20% Debate Assessment, 20% Reflective Journal and 60% Individual Opinion Piece Video. The session will be of specific interest to colleagues involved in teaching and learning in STEM subjects but will also be of interest to anyone interested in exploring the concept of decolonization in Higher Education.