SPARK (Short Program for American Indian Alaska Native Knowledge) is a FREE, online 4-week course that raises awareness of American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) health disparities and public health needs. It is an interactive cohort-based course that includes community-led presentations and facilitated group discussions.
The course was developed to provide accessible education and tools to diverse audiences, fostering understanding and partnerships to address health disparities, while promoting interest in the graduate-level Certificate in American Indian and Alaska Native Health program at the Centers for American Indian and Alaska Native Health in the Colorado School of Public Health.
Enhancing American Indian and Alaska Native health education
SPARK Overview
Course Topics
The course provides a high-level overview of AI/AN health issues and covers the following topics:
- Foundations in American Indian and Alaska Native Health
- Public Health through an Indigenous Lens
- Ethical Considerations & Positive Collaborations
- Indigenous Methodologies
Course Format
SPARK is an interactive cohort-based course that heavily relies on discussion and course participant sharing. Each session includes community-led panels and facilitated discussion.
The course is entirely virtual and facilitated live through Zoom. For each course, an opportunity to gather in person may be offered, though this is completely optional.
Course Instructors
For each course, the SPARK team invites American Indian and Alaska Native leaders in public health to lead each session. Instructors can be faculty members, but are also often community members with expertise in public health.
Course Participants
SPARK is appropriate for varying education levels and for community members and researchers. That includes, but is not limited to:
- Students (high school and above)
- University faculty, staff, and alumni
- Community members
Anyone can participate. No prerequisites or experience required.
Course Schedule
The course is offered each Spring, Summer, and Fall, with specific dates set approximately two months prior to start. Participants will meet once a week for four consecutive weeks (four sessions total). Typically, the Spring and Fall sessions are held on weekday evenings and the Summer session is during the workday.
SPARK Team
Faculty and staff at the Centers for American Indian and Alaska Native Health (CAIANH) organize the course.
Research Scientist and Associate Director, CAIANH
FAQs
How can I participate?
Complete this interest form to sign up for the next course. Courses are offered three times annually in the Spring, Summer, and Fall. We will let you know when the next course will be offered.
Want to participate in SPARK?
Complete this interest form and SPARK will follow up.