Prospectus

nl en

From Data to Decisions: Evidence-Based Medicine in Practice

Course
2025-2026

Admission requirements

None.

Description

This course will introduce students to the concepts of evidence-based medicine (EBM), how it is developed, what perspectives are included, and how it is applied into clinical decision making. The course will also connect evidence-based medicine with concepts of science communication, and have students consider the relationship between elements of EBM, science communication, and the effects on health policy and decision making. Students will learn the history of EBM and the various types of evidence along with their application, and will further explore aspects of EBM and science communication such as patient values and preferences, cost effectiveness, health misinformation, and EBM and AI. Students will apply their knowledge through a group presentation and an article revision assignment, culminating in a final exam.

Course Objectives

Students will:

  • Understand how different forms of evidence are used in health and health policy decision making

  • Apply and understand the basic concepts of science communication, including relating these concepts to the global health context

  • Apply the concepts of science communication and EBM to real world cases and demonstrate awareness of the disconnects between evidence and communication

  • Understand the different elements that go into EBM decision making, including patient preferences, cost effectiveness, and individualized healthcare

Timetable

Timetables for courses offered at Leiden University College in 2025-2026 will be published on this page of the e-Prospectus.

Mode of instruction

This course will use a combination of theory lecture, group discussion, and student led learning to provide the background knowledge necessary for students to apply theories and concepts to practical classes.

Assessment Method

  • Newspaper article (40%)

  • Group Presentation (19%)

  • Final Exam (41%)

Reading list

Will be announced at the start of the course.

Registration

Courses offered at Leiden University College (LUC) are usually only open to LUC students and LUC exchange students. Leiden University students who participate in one of the university’s Honours tracks or programmes may register for one LUC course, if availability permits. Registration is coordinated by the Education Coordinator, course.administration@luc.leidenuniv.nl.

Contact

Emilie de Kanter, e.k.de.kanter@luc.leidenuniv.nl

Remarks

-