51ÁÔĆć

In NUTR 235: Intro to Nutrition for the Health Profession, Stephanie Send, clinical assistant professor at 51ÁÔĆć, makes sure that the focus is not just on learning about nutrition. She also understands the importance of creating an engaging and supportive classroom environment.

Small class sizes

With a small class size (~36 students), students benefit from interactive small-group work and case studies, allowing them to collaborate closely with their peers. This is especially beneficial for freshmen, helping them build connections early in their academic journey.

Anonymous real-time student feedback and dietary analysis assignment

One key feature of the NUTR 235 course is the use of Mentimeter for anonymous student feedback. At the end of each module, students can highlight confusing topics or calculations, allowing for real-time course corrections without fear of embarrassment. Another favorite aspect of the class is the dietary analysis scaffolded assignment, where students track their own dietary patterns throughout the semester. By aligning their personal data with lessons on macronutrients and micronutrients, students gain valuable insights into their own nutrition.

Simulation-based learning and skills lab

Beyond the undergraduate level, Zilber College faculty are integrating simulation-based learning into the Nutrition & Dietetics MPH program. Using the James and Yvonne Ziemer Clinical Simulation Center, students engage in realistic patient scenarios, interacting with faculty or student actors portraying individuals with different disease states. This hands-on experience bridges the gap between classroom knowledge and real-world clinical practice.

This Spring semester will feature a skills lab focused on feeding tubes, pumps, and other medical nutrition equipment. These practical experiences provide invaluable training, ensuring students are well-prepared for their future careers in nutrition and dietetics.