Theory in praxis: Using the modified version of the Social Network Strategy (mSNS) as a pedagogical tool for understanding

Abstract

A fundamental challenge for all instructors in higher education is demonstrating the relevance of the material for our students. With the implementation of new technologies, and facing ever-increasing challenges, instructors need to adapt their approach, especially in the teaching of theory. This presentation provides one such approach. Instead of simply “lecturing” on a theory or having a simple exercise, instructors center their curriculum on a semester-long activity requiring students to put the modified version of the Social Network Strategy (mSNS) theory into praxis. As a result, students not only see the value in the activity itself but are able to recognize the theory’s relevance and application in their lives as they commit to using the theory beyond the scope of the classroom.

Course

Health Communication.

Objectives

This semester-long activity is designed to provide health communication students with an introduction to delivering community-specific communication interventions. First, principles of health communication are identified and taught to students. Second, students facilitate a community-based health communication intervention.

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Correction

Correction Statement

This article was originally published with errors, which have now been corrected in the online version. Please see Correction (http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/17404622.2022.2074073)

Additional information

Funding

This study was supported by a grant from Villanova University's Waterhouse Family Institute for the Study of Communication and Society (WFI).