Inquiry-based learning in community health education
Examining place-based, experiential learning in Aotearoa New Zealand
Bibliographic Data
| ID | 21323596 |
|---|---|
| Authors | Christina Severinsen (0000-0003-0451-6728, Massey University, corresponding author), Suzanne Phibb (0000-0003-4168-1415, Massey University) |
| Year | 2026 |
| Publication date | 2026-06-30 |
| Open Access | Yes |
| Type | ARTICLE |
| Venue | Health Education Journal (JOURNAL) |
| Journal identifiers | ISSN: 0017-8969 • E-ISSN: 1748-8176 |
| Publisher | SAGE Publications (PUBLISHER • US) |
| DOI | 10.1177/00178969261460623 |
| OpenAlex | W7166699213 |
| Language | EN |
| References cited | 25 |
Objectives: This discussion paper examines a third-year undergraduate health course in Aotearoa New Zealand that employs inquiry-based learning to engage students through place-based investigation. Design: The course design facilitates progressive knowledge construction through three linked assessments as students research their local communities using observational techniques, including PhotoVoice and community assessment tools. Discussion: Rather than following a conventional content-delivery model, the curriculum centres student exploration within an authentic context, supporting the development of project management, research, and analytical skills. This pedagogical approach enables students to engage with the complexity of community health determinants while navigating the practical and ethical limitations of community-based learning within university structures. Conclusion: Analysis of the curriculum reveals both strengths and tensions of the approach, offering insights for health promotion educators seeking to implement experiential learning methodologies that connect theoretical knowledge with applied practice. The article concludes with recommendations for enhancing inquiry-based approaches in health promotion education that acknowledge cultural context and community strengths
Aotearoa · Community health · Context (archaeology) · Curriculum · Experiential education · Experiential learning · Health promotion · Photovoice · Service-learning · Global Health Workforce Issues · Indigenous and Place-Based Education · Service-Learning and Community Engagement
Neighborhood Environment Walkability Scale
The development and testing of an audit for the pedestrian environment
Neighborhood Built Environment and Transport and Leisure Physical Activity
The Physical Activity Resource Assessment (Para) instrument
Health literacy as a public health goal
Critical health literacy
Place-based education – a systematic review of literature
Understanding critical health literacy
| Highly cited | No |
|---|