Doctor–patient communication begins long before the actual encounter. Before entering the clinic, the patient searches for information, solutions, and guidance—this process sets the stage for building trust and shaping expectations. From this point on, the ethos of the future professional relationship starts to take shape, forming a key foundation in medical practice. Many authors in the field of medical humanities emphasize that understanding a patient requires integrating the cultural, moral, and human dimensions of their experience. Medical communication thus becomes the most fluent link between medical sciences and the humanities. Through narratives, dialogue, and active listening, healthcare professionals can make more effective decisions under uncertainty and can more easily adapt treatments to each individual.
The Academic Knowledge and Communication course is designed to support future healthcare professionals in acquiring essential communication skills, both within academic settings and in their interactions with patients and the community. Students will explore the boundaries and potential of communication, the impact of different types of knowledge available in the digital society, as well as current topics related to health risk communication.
The course content covers fundamental topics such as: concepts and theories of communication, the communication process, and the specific features of academic and professional discourse, along with communication techniques and skills, persuasion and information strategies, and types of public communication. Special emphasis is placed on health risk communication, an essential component of modern medical practice.
By the end of the semester, students will be able to:
- develop interpersonal and public communication plans;
- apply the principles of academic communication in interactions with patients and colleagues;
- use modern research tools and digital technologies;
- enhance teamwork abilities in multidisciplinary settings and practice empathetic communication.
Dear students,
At the course "Academic Knowledge and Communication" you will learn about:
- the basics of communication and their role in professional relationships;
- how to build clear and effective messages;
- techniques of persuasion and information sharing;
- how to express yourself in public and work in a team;
- how to manage sensitive situations, including risk communication
Benefits for you?
- You will develop the confidence to speak and write clearly, accurately, and convincingly.
- You will be able to develop communication plans for both face-to-face interactions and public presentations or projects.
- You will learn how to apply academic and ethical standards, while also remaining empathetic in your relationship with the patient.
How can we achieve the effects mentioned above?
By:
- Courses and practical applications, role-playing games, and case studies;
- Individual and team projects that will help you directly apply the concepts learned.
Continuous assessment, so that your progress is visible step by step. We will monitor activities during the semester as well as individual and team projects. The final grade is based on:
- Creating an original material (campaign/presentation) – 50%
- Portfolio of assignments and role-plays in seminars – 50%
In the end, you will have not only knowledge but also concrete communication tools that will help you make a difference in your medical career.
The course "Knowledge and Academic Communication" prepares you to confidently navigate the demands of the academic environment and the responsibilities of the medical profession, guided by clear, rigorous, and empathetic communication.
With best regards,
Professor, PhD Xenia Negrea