PredictionX: John Snow and the Cholera Epidemic of 1854

An immersive one-week course offered by HarvardX

Course Description

Embark on a fascinating journey through time with "PredictionX: John Snow and the Cholera Epidemic of 1854," an immersive one-week course offered by HarvardX. This introductory-level history course delves into the gripping story of Dr. John Snow, a pioneering epidemiologist who revolutionized our understanding of cholera, public health, and epidemiology during a devastating outbreak in 19th-century London.

What students will learn from the course:

  • The life-changing role of John Snow in creating modern epidemiology
  • A vivid description of 19th-century London life, particularly in the Soho neighborhood
  • The impact of the 1854 cholera epidemic on public health practices
  • How John Snow's groundbreaking investigation challenged prevailing beliefs about disease transmission
  • The use of data and mapping techniques in epidemiological research
  • The historical context of infectious disease outbreaks and their societal implications

Pre-requisites or skills necessary to complete the course:

This course has no specific prerequisites, making it accessible to anyone with an interest in history, public health, or epidemiology. However, basic computer skills will be helpful for interacting with the course's digital tools.

What the course will cover:

  • The 1854 cholera epidemic in London's Soho district
  • John Snow's methodology and investigation techniques
  • The creation and significance of Snow's cholera map
  • 19th-century theories about disease transmission
  • The evolution of epidemiology and public health practices
  • Interactive exploration of historical data using modern tools (ArcGIS and Timeline JS)
  • The broader context of prediction attempts throughout history (as part of the PredictionX series)

Who this course is for:

  • History enthusiasts interested in medical breakthroughs
  • Public health students and professionals
  • Aspiring epidemiologists and infectious disease researchers
  • Data visualization and GIS enthusiasts
  • Anyone curious about the intersection of science, history, and society

How learners can use these skills in the real world:

The knowledge and skills gained from this course have numerous real-world applications:

  • Understanding the historical context of modern public health practices
  • Applying data visualization techniques to complex health issues
  • Developing critical thinking skills for analyzing disease outbreaks
  • Appreciating the importance of evidence-based approaches in healthcare
  • Enhancing interdisciplinary problem-solving abilities
  • Gaining insights into the use of GIS software and JavaScript for data representation
  • Applying historical lessons to contemporary public health challenges

By exploring John Snow's groundbreaking work, students will develop a deeper appreciation for the role of data, mapping, and investigative techniques in addressing public health crises. This course equips learners with valuable insights that can be applied to modern-day epidemiology, infectious disease control, and public health policy-making.

As part of the broader PredictionX series, this course also provides a unique perspective on humanity's ongoing efforts to predict and control future events, connecting past discoveries with present-day scientific advancements.