Since 2022, McGoogan Library faculty have coordinated the instruction in the High School Alliance course “The Art and Science of Decision-Making.” Utilizing special collections such as rare books, artifacts, art, the graphic medicine collection, Wigton Heritage Center exhibitions, and oral histories, McGoogan faculty have introduced High School Alliance students to the health humanities. The health humanities teach empathy, listening and observation skills, acceptance of ambiguity, and growth in professional identity formation, all important components for healthy and effective health science professionals.
By studying the history of the health sciences through artifacts and rare books students gain perspective on the changes in the field that contribute to professional identity formation. Library faculty use their expertise in graphic medicine and oral histories to promote a growth in empathy. Student interaction with art, artifacts, and exhibitions facilitates their observational skills. The unique collections at McGoogan Library and the expertise of McGoogan faculty provide a singular opportunity for High School Alliance students to grow in the health sciences field.
Learn more about the library’s collaborative work with High School Alliance—and UNMC’s Pathway Programs—at our upcoming panel event.