• 25 Nov, 2024
• Saba Furqan

Health Sciences Education: Saba Furqan’s Insights on Fostering Student Wellbeing and Success by Blending Theory and Practice

Saba Furqan is not just an educator; she’s an architect of transformative learning experiences. Her journey from clinical practice to the classroom has been driven by a passion for nurturing the next generation of healthcare professionals. In this interview, she shares her insights on creating student-centred learning environments that promote well-being and academic success. Discover her innovative teaching methods, practical tips for maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and her vision for the future of health education – a future where technology and compassion converge to shape a healthier tomorrow.

Magazica: Can you share your journey into education and health sciences? What inspired you to blend clinical practice with teaching?

Saba Furqan: My journey into education and health sciences has been a dynamic one, shaped by my background in clinical practice and my move to Canada. I began my career practicing medicine in Pakistan, where I gained invaluable hands-on experience in patient care and healthcare delivery. This experience deeply influenced my understanding of health, wellness, and the critical role of education in these fields.

However, after moving to Canada, I transitioned to teaching, driven by a desire to share my medical expertise and inspire the inspired by a desire to share my medical expertise and inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals.

This shift was fueled by my passion for teaching and the realization that education plays a critical role in shaping the future of healthcare. I wanted to combine my medical expertise with the opportunity to inspire students, engage them in hands-on learning, and help them acquire the skills needed to navigate the complexities of healthcare. Teaching allows me not only to impart knowledge but also to guide students in developing critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and empathy—qualities essential for success in healthcare.

What solidified this decision was my experience mentoring my students during their clinical rotation in Pakistan. This experience showed me how effective guidance can help students grow in confidence and competence. This moment reinforced my belief in the power of education to create a ripple effect of positive change in the healthcare field.

This transition allowed me to combine the best of both worlds—medicine and education—by designing student-centered curricula that merge theoretical knowledge with real-life applications. I’ve been able to stay at the forefront of medical advancements while nurturing the next generation of healthcare providers. This approach helps students grasp key concepts in health sciences and apply them meaningfully, preparing them for professional challenges. This dynamic interplay keeps me motivated and eager to continue learning.

Magazica: You’ve been commended for your effective teaching methods. Can you discuss some strategies that you find most impactful in fostering a positive learning environment?

Saba Furqan: One of my guiding principles in teaching is creating a student-centered learning environment that fosters engagement, curiosity, and critical thinking. Over the years, I’ve implemented several strategies that have been particularly impactful:

Active Learning Techniques: Incorporating interactive methods such as case-based discussions, simulations, and problem-solving exercises encourages students to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios. This approach not only reinforces learning but also builds their confidence in handling practical challenges.

Personalized Support and Feedback: Recognizing that every student learns differently, I make a conscious effort to understand their individual needs and tailor my approach accordingly. I provide constructive feedback that focuses on their strengths and areas for growth, ensuring they feel supported and motivated.

Creating a Safe and Inclusive Environment: Establishing a classroom culture where students feel valued and respected is paramount. I encourage open dialogue, actively listen to their perspectives, and emphasize that mistakes are part of the learning process.

Integrating Technology: Leveraging tools like virtual simulations, online quizzes, and interactive platforms helps diversify the learning experience. For instance, using flipped classrooms where students review materials beforehand and engage in collaborative problem-solving during sessions has been very effective.

Linking Theory to Practice: As someone with clinical experience, I frequently draw from real-world examples to illustrate complex concepts. Students often tell me that these connections make the material more relatable and memorable.

Encouraging Reflection: I incorporate reflective practices, such as journaling or post-simulation debriefs, to help students critically analyze their experiences, understand their learning processes, and identify areas for improvement.

Magazica: Your profile highlights a student-centered approach. Why do you believe this method is essentially connected to health of students? In today’s educational landscape, and how do you implement it in your classroom?

Saba Furqan: I believe a student-centered approach is fundamentally connected to students’ overall health—both mental and physical—because it recognizes the individuality of each learner and promotes their well-being alongside academic success. In today’s educational landscape, where students often face stress, burnout, and high expectations, prioritizing their needs fosters resilience, engagement, and a more holistic sense of achievement.

Why it’s connected to health:

Promoting Mental Well-being: A student-centered approach acknowledges the diverse backgrounds, learning styles, and personal challenges of each student. By valuing their input and tailoring learning experiences, it helps reduce anxiety, build confidence, and create a supportive environment that positively impacts mental health.

Empowering Ownership of Learning: When students are actively involved in their education, they feel a sense of control and responsibility. This empowerment not only enhances academic outcomes but also nurtures a mindset that prioritizes self-care, time management, and balance.

Encouraging Collaboration and Community: Collaborative learning fosters a sense of belonging, reducing feelings of isolation. It mirrors the teamwork essential in healthcare, preparing students for professional environments while supporting their social health.

Addressing Holistic Development: A student-centered classroom goes beyond academics, focusing on skills like communication, empathy, and critical thinking—qualities that are integral to personal and professional well-being.

How I implement it:

Active Listening and Feedback: I begin by understanding each student’s goals, challenges, and learning preferences. Regular check-ins and personalized feedback help them feel heard and supported.

Flexible Learning Opportunities: I provide a mix of activities—such as discussions, hands-on projects, and digital tools—that cater to different learning styles. For instance, in health education, I might use patient simulations for kinesthetic learners and case studies for those who excel in analytical thinking.

Encouraging Reflection and Autonomy: Assignments often include reflective components, encouraging students to assess their learning processes and health habits. I also offer choices in projects, empowering them to explore topics they’re passionate about.

Fostering Collaboration and Peer Support: Group activities and peer teaching sessions build a sense of community. For example, in healthcare education, students might collaborate on creating wellness plans, mirroring real-world teamwork.

Integrating Health and Wellness: I incorporate elements of well-being into the curriculum, such as mindfulness exercises before exams, discussions about work-life balance, and highlighting the importance of mental health in professional practice.

In this way, a student-centered approach not only enhances learning outcomes but also nurtures healthier, more resilient individuals who are better equipped to succeed both in and beyond the classroom.

Magazica: How do you balance the theoretical and practical aspects of health sciences in your teaching to ensure students are ready for real-world challenges?

Saba Furqan: Balancing the theoretical and practical aspects of health sciences is crucial in preparing students for the complexities of real-world challenges. My approach focuses on creating a seamless integration between knowledge and application, ensuring students not only understand the foundational principles but also know how to apply them in diverse clinical settings. To balance theory and practice, I adopt the following steps.

Contextualizing Theory with Real-World Applications: I begin by emphasizing the relevance of theoretical concepts to clinical practice. For example, when teaching pathophysiology, I connect the material to case studies or real-life scenarios, helping students visualize how the knowledge is applied in diagnosing and treating patients.

Incorporating Simulated Learning Experiences: Simulations, whether through high-fidelity mannequins, virtual platforms, or role-playing exercises, provide a controlled environment where students can apply their theoretical knowledge without the risks of real-world practice. These activities help build confidence and competence.

Blended Learning Approaches: I use a flipped classroom model where students review theoretical content before class. In class, we focus on applying this knowledge through hands-on activities, such as analyzing patient cases, developing care plans, or conducting mock assessments.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Health sciences rely on teamwork. I design projects that mimic interprofessional collaborations, such as working with peers from other disciplines to solve complex healthcare scenarios. This approach reinforces theoretical knowledge and prepares students for collaborative environments.

Integrating Feedback and Reflection: After practical sessions, I encourage students to reflect on their experiences and identify connections between theory and practice. Constructive feedback during debriefings further solidifies their understanding and readiness.

Engaging with Clinical Rotations or Fieldwork: Whenever possible, I incorporate clinical exposure early in the learning process. Observations, internships, or partnerships with healthcare providers allow students to see the direct application of their studies in real patient care settings.

By intertwining theory and practice, students develop not only technical skills but also critical thinking, adaptability, and decision-making abilities. They learn to approach healthcare challenges holistically, combining evidence-based knowledge with practical expertise. This balance ensures they are confident and prepared to meet the demands of dynamic healthcare environments.

Magazica: Given your expertise in health sciences, what are some practical tips you can share with our readers to maintain a healthy lifestyle?

Saba Furqan: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is about creating sustainable habits that nurture both the body and mind. Based on my expertise in health sciences, here are some practical tips that anyone can incorporate into their daily routine:

Prioritize Balanced Nutrition:
Focus on whole, minimally processed foods, including plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Stay hydrated, and practice mindful eating—pay attention to hunger and fullness cues.

Stay Physically Active:
Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous activity per week, as recommended by health guidelines. Choose activities you enjoy, whether it’s walking, dancing, or yoga, to make it a regular part of your lifestyle. I highly recommend going out for walk in nature for at least 30-minute a day, as it can improve heart health, circulation and lower cholesterol, blood glucose, and blood pressure. It also reduces inflammation and boosts your immune system, which decreases the risk of certain diseases and cancers. Interacting with a green space increases social interactions which can prevent diseases like dementia. Listening to birdsongs and observing animals in nature have shown to promote wellbeing, reduce stress, improve mood, and reduce attention fatigue. Natural aromas from wood and plants have calming effects and viewing nature reduces mental fatigue.

Adopt Stress Management Techniques:
Incorporate mindfulness practices such as meditation, deep breathing, or journaling to reduce stress. Finding time for hobbies and maintaining a work-life balance is equally important for mental well-being.

Get Adequate Sleep:
Sleep is the cornerstone of good health. Adults should aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep per night. Establish a regular sleep schedule and create a calming bedtime routine to support better rest.

Build Strong Social Connections:
Positive relationships are essential for emotional health. Spend time with family and friends, engage in meaningful conversations, and consider joining community groups to foster a sense of belonging.

Stay Preventive and Proactive:
Regular health check-ups, vaccinations, and screenings can help detect and prevent potential health issues early. Listen to your body and seek professional advice when needed.

Limit Unhealthy Habits:
Reduce consumption of alcohol and sugary drinks, avoid smoking, and minimize screen time, particularly before bed, to promote better mental and physical health.

Cultivate Gratitude and Positivity:
Practice gratitude daily, whether by listing things you’re thankful for or reflecting on positive experiences. A positive outlook can improve both mental health and overall quality of life.

Health is a lifelong journey, and small, consistent changes can lead to significant long-term benefits. The key is to find what works for you and make these habits enjoyable and sustainable.

Enhanced Accessibility and Flexibility:
Online learning platforms and digital resources provide students with the flexibility to access content anytime, anywhere. This is particularly valuable for remote or part-time learners.

Simulation-Based Learning:
Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are enabling students to practice skills in realistic, risk-free environments. From performing virtual surgeries to exploring human anatomy in 3D, these tools offer unparalleled hands-on experience.

Data-Driven Personalization:
Artificial intelligence (AI) and learning analytics can identify individual student needs, enabling tailored learning experiences. This ensures that students receive support where they need it most.

Interprofessional Collaboration:
Technology fosters collaboration among students in different disciplines, mirroring real-world healthcare teamwork. Digital platforms enable shared case studies and joint problem-solving exercises.

Real-Time Feedback and Assessment:
Tools like online quizzes, interactive modules, and simulation debriefing provide immediate feedback, helping students understand their strengths and areas for improvement.

Innovative tools and methods I’ve integrated are as follows.

Flipped Classroom Model:
Students review digital resources, such as recorded lectures or e-learning modules, before class. During sessions, we focus on applying their knowledge through class discussions, problem-solving, and case studies.

Gamified Learning:
Incorporating gamification tools, such as Kahoot! or Quizlet, makes learning interactive and engaging. For instance, competitive quizzes on medical terminology or case-based scenarios have been highly effective.

Collaborative Online Platforms:
Tools like Google Workspace or Canvas facilitate teamwork on projects, enabling students to collaborate in real-time regardless of their physical location.

As technology advances, I anticipate even greater integration of AI, wearable health devices, and real-time data analytics in health education. These innovations will equip students to adapt to emerging trends in healthcare, ensuring they remain proficient in both technical skills and compassionate care.

Magazica: What advice would you give to aspiring educators who aim to make a significant impact in their students’ lives?

Saba Furqan: For aspiring educators who aim to make a meaningful impact in their students’ lives, my advice is rooted in passion, preparation, and perspective. Teaching is more than sharing knowledge; it’s about inspiring and empowering others to reach their potential. Here are some key principles to guide your journey:

Cultivate Empathy and Connection:
Build genuine relationships with your students by understanding their individual needs, challenges, and aspirations. A caring, supportive educator can have a profound impact on a student’s confidence and motivation.

Embrace Lifelong Learning:
Education is ever-evolving, and as an educator, you should be too. Stay curious, keep up with advancements in your field, and seek opportunities for professional development to continually enhance your teaching practice.

Create an Inclusive Environment:
Foster a classroom culture where all students feel valued, respected, and safe to express themselves. Inclusivity promotes engagement, collaboration, and a sense of belonging.

Focus on Student-Centered Learning:
Shift the focus from teaching to facilitating learning. Encourage active participation, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Tailor your methods to diverse learning styles and empower students to take ownership of their education.

Balance High Expectations with Support:
Challenge your students to push their limits, but provide the guidance and encouragement they need to succeed. Celebrate their achievements and help them learn from setbacks.

Be Adaptable and Innovative:
Education is not one-size-fits-all. Be open to trying new strategies, incorporating technology, and adjusting your methods to meet the unique needs of your students and the demands of a changing world.

Model Integrity and Passion:
Your enthusiasm and dedication are contagious. Show your students the value of hard work, ethical behavior, and a love for learning. Be the role model you wish you had during your own education.

Encourage Reflection and Growth:
Teach students the value of self-reflection, both academically and personally. Help them see education as a journey of growth and self-discovery, not just a pathway to grades or credentials.

Celebrate Diversity of Thought:
Encourage students to voice their ideas and perspectives. Teach them to respect differing viewpoints and collaborate effectively in diverse environments, skills that are invaluable in both education and life.

Find Fulfillment in the Journey:
Remember, the impact you make as an educator often goes beyond what you see. Trust that the seeds you plant today will grow in ways you may never witness, but will undoubtedly shape a better future.

Teaching is a noble and transformative profession. Approach it with humility, dedication, and a genuine desire to make a difference, and you will leave a lasting legacy in the lives of your students.

Magazica: Can you share some insights on how to create and sustain an effective learning environment that promotes academic and personal growth?

Saba Furqan: Creating and sustaining an effective learning environment is about fostering a space where students feel safe, engaged, and empowered to explore their potential. Academic and personal growth go hand in hand, and the environment we build as educators plays a critical role in nurturing both. Here are some insights I’ve gained over the years: Key Elements of an Effective Learning Environment are:

A Culture of Respect and Inclusivity:
Every student should feel valued and respected regardless of their background or abilities. Encourage open dialogue, celebrate diversity, and ensure that all voices are heard and appreciated.

Clear Expectations and Structure:
Provide clear guidelines for behavior, participation, and academic goals. A structured environment creates stability, while well-communicated expectations help students understand what’s required of them.

Supportive & Motivating Relationships:
Build trust and rapport with students by showing genuine interest in their progress and well-being. Encourage peer collaboration to create a sense of community and mutual support within the classroom.

Engaging and Relevant Content:
Tailor your lessons to include real-world applications and address students’ interests. Use diverse teaching methods to cater to different learning styles, such as hands-on activities, discussions, and multimedia resources.

Encouraging Curiosity and Critical Thinking:
Promote inquiry-based learning by asking thought-provoking questions and encouraging students to explore topics deeply. Foster a mindset of lifelong learning by celebrating curiosity and creative problem-solving.

Focus on Growth and Resilience:
Emphasize progress over perfection. Teach students to view challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. Provide constructive feedback that highlights their strengths while guiding them on how to improve.

Physical and Emotional Safety: Create a safe, comfortable space where students feel free to take intellectual risks without fear of judgment. Encourage a growth mindset by normalizing mistakes as part of the learning process.

The steps to Sustain the Environment are:

Consistency and Adaptability:
While consistency in rules and expectations is important, remain flexible to address the changing needs of your students. Regularly assess the effectiveness of your strategies and make adjustments when necessary.

Student Empowerment:
Involve students in shaping the learning environment. Allow them to contribute ideas, take on leadership roles, and collaborate on classroom norms. This fosters ownership and accountability.

Celebrating Achievements:
Recognize both academic and personal milestones. Whether through awards, shoutouts, or private words of encouragement, celebrating progress boosts morale and motivation.

Integrating Well-Being Practices:
Incorporate elements that support mental health, such as mindfulness exercises, open discussions about stress management, or moments of reflection. A healthy mind is essential for effective learning.

Continuous Professional Development:
Stay updated on new teaching strategies, tools, and research. As educators grow, they bring fresh energy and insights into the learning environment.

Feedback Loop:
Regularly seek feedback from students about their learning experience. Their input can provide valuable insights into what’s working and what could be improved.

An effective learning environment is dynamic and responsive, shaped by the collective effort of the educator and students. By focusing on both academic and personal growth, we prepare students not only for success in their studies but also for the challenges and opportunities beyond the classroom.

Magazica: What are some of the common challenges you face in the educational field, and how do you address them?

Saba Furqan: The educational field presents a variety of challenges, each requiring adaptability, creativity, and resilience. Over the years, I’ve encountered and addressed several common obstacles, including the following:

Firstly, to meet diverse Learning Needs. The Challenge in any classroom, students bring a wide range of abilities, learning styles, and backgrounds. Meeting the needs of every student while maintaining a cohesive learning environment can be difficult.

Question can be, how I Address It. The answer is:

I use differentiated instruction, providing multiple ways for students to access and engage with material (e.g., visual aids, hands-on activities, and discussions).

I create opportunities for individualized support through one-on-one interactions and tailored feedback.

Technology plays a key role; tools like adaptive learning platforms help personalize the learning experience.

Secondly, maintaining consistent motivation among students, especially in demanding or theoretical subjects, can be challenging. Solution?

I connect lessons to real-world applications to make learning relevant and meaningful.

I foster an interactive classroom by incorporating gamification, group activities, and problem-solving scenarios.

Celebrating small successes helps build momentum and confidence in students.

Thirdly, while academic success is important, addressing students’ emotional and social development is equally vital, especially when they face stress or external pressures.

I create a supportive environment where students feel safe to express themselves and seek help.

I integrate discussions about mental health and well-being into the curriculum, emphasizing balance and resilience.

By maintaining open communication and being approachable, I build trust with students.

Fourthly, While technology enhances learning, it can also pose challenges, such as ensuring equal access for all students or avoiding over-reliance on digital tools.

I provide alternative resources for students who may have limited access to technology outside of school.

I balance tech-based methods with traditional approaches to maintain diversity in teaching strategies.

I educate students on digital literacy, helping them navigate technology effectively and responsibly.

Fifth challenge is that both students and colleagues may sometimes resist new teaching methods or curriculum changes.

I focus on clear communication, explaining the rationale behind changes and involving stakeholders in the decision-making process.

I use gradual implementation, allowing time for adjustment and feedback.

Sharing success stories or evidence-based benefits of new approaches helps build trust and acceptance.

Sixth Challenge, budget constraints or lack of resources can limit opportunities for experiential learning or access to updated materials.

I creatively maximize existing resources, such as using open-source tools and community partnerships.

I advocate for funding or support through grants and collaborations with local organizations.

Collaborative, student-led projects often make up for resource gaps while encouraging innovation and teamwork.

Finally, Educators often juggle teaching, administrative tasks, and professional development, which can lead to burnout.

I prioritize self-care and set realistic boundaries to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Delegating tasks, collaborating with colleagues, and using time-management strategies help streamline responsibilities.

Staying connected to the “why” of teaching—the impact on students—keeps me motivated and focused.

Challenges in education are inevitable, but they also present opportunities for growth and innovation. By remaining adaptable, empathetic, and proactive, educators can turn obstacles into pathways for creating richer and more effective learning experiences.

Balance Macronutrients: Proper balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats supports energy levels, muscle health, and cellular functions.
Tip: Aim for meals that include a source of lean protein (chicken, fish, tofu, legumes), healthy fats (avocado, olive oil, nuts), and complex carbohydrates (brown rice, quinoa, sweet potatoes). This combination helps maintain stable blood sugar levels and supports satiety.

Incorporate Healthy Fats: Healthy fats, such as omega-3 fatty acids, are crucial for heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation.
Tip: Include sources of healthy fats in your diet, such as fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), flaxseeds, walnuts, and olive oil. Avoid excessive intake of saturated and trans fats, often found in processed foods.

Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration is essential for maintaining energy, supporting digestion, regulating body temperature, and flushing out toxins.
Tip: Drink water regularly throughout the day, aiming for at least 8 glasses (2 liters). Herbal teas or infused water with fruits like lemon or cucumber can be great alternatives to sugary drinks.

Choose Fiber-Rich Foods: Fiber supports digestive health, helps maintain a healthy weight, and can reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes.
Tip: Incorporate fiber-rich foods like whole grains (oats, quinoa, brown rice), legumes (beans, lentils), vegetables (broccoli, spinach), and fruits (apples, berries) into your diet.

Practice Portion Control: Even healthy foods can contribute to weight gain or health issues if consumed in excessive quantities.
Tip: Practice mindful eating by paying attention to portion sizes. Use smaller plates to help regulate your food intake, and listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues. Eating slowly allows you to better gauge when you are satisfied.

Limit Added Sugars and Processed Foods: Excessive sugar and processed foods can contribute to inflammation, weight gain, and increase the risk of chronic diseases like Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure.
Tip: Minimize sugary snacks, sodas, and processed foods that contain refined sugars and unhealthy fats. Go for natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup in moderation and focus on eating whole foods for your nutritional needs.

Eat Regular, Balanced Meals: Skipping meals can lead to overeating later and disrupt your metabolism. Regular, balanced meals help maintain steady energy and prevent blood sugar spikes and crashes.
Tip: Try to eat smaller, balanced meals every 3-4 hours to maintain energy and regulate your metabolism. Include a protein source, healthy fats, and some fiber in each meal to keep you feeling full longer.

Include Probiotics and Prebiotics for Gut Health: A healthy gut microbiome supports digestion, immunity, and mental health. Probiotics (live beneficial bacteria) and prebiotics (fiber that feeds these bacteria) are key for gut balance.
Tip: Include probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kombucha, and prebiotic foods like garlic, onions, asparagus, and bananas to support gut health.

Avoid Extreme Diets and Focus on Long-Term Habits: Quick-fix diets often lead to temporary results and can be hard to maintain. Sustainable changes are far more effective for long-term health and well-being.

Some Quick -Fix diets are as follows:

Atkins Diet – Atkins diet is a high-protein, high-fat diet that restricts carbs and gradually adds them back in, based on personal tolerance. Studies have shown it is one of the most effective ways to lose weight.

South Beach Diet – The South Beach Diet is a high-protein, lower-carb, lower-fat diet that has been shown to produce weight loss and reduce heart disease risk factors.

Vegan Diet – Vegan diets have been found to be effective for weight loss in both short-term and long-term studies. In addition, they may help protect heart health.

Ketogenic Diet – Ketogenic diets often provide less than 30 grams of carbs per day. They’ve been shown to promote loss of weight and belly fat, and to lower the risk of disease in overweight and obese people.

Paleo Diet – The paleo diet is based on ancestral eating principles that focus on whole, unprocessed foods. Research suggests it may help you lose weight and improve your overall health.

The Zone Diet – The Zone diet specifies a diet composed of 30% lean protein, 30% healthy fat and 40% high-fiber carbs. Research suggests it may help you lose weight and reduce inflammation.

The Dukan Diet – The Dukan Diet begins with a nearly all-protein diet and allows other foods in its later stages. Like other high-protein, low-carb diets, it can promote rapid weight loss while controlling hunger.

The 5:2 Diet – The 5:2 diet is a form of alternate-day fasting that involves eating 500–600 calories two days a week, and eating normally otherwise. It’s been found effective for losing weight and fat while protecting against muscle loss.

Tip: Focus on building healthy, sustainable habits rather than opting for extreme diets or trends. Consistency over time is key to achieving lasting results. Small, gradual changes in your diet can lead to big improvements in health.

Good nutrition is the foundation of good health. By focusing on balanced, whole foods, staying hydrated, and maintaining mindful eating practices, you can improve your overall health, enhance energy levels, and support long-term well-being. Remember that each positive choice you make today contributes to your health tomorrow!

Magazica: What are your future goals as an educator, and how do you envision the future of health education evolving in the next decade?

Saba Furqan: As an educator, my future goals are rooted in both personal growth and contributing to the broader evolution of health education. Over the next decade, I envision a dynamic, technology-integrated, and student-centered approach that will redefine how we teach and learn about health.

My Personal Goals:

Enhancing Pedagogical Expertise:
One of my primary goals is to continue evolving as an educator by staying current with the latest teaching methods and advancements in health sciences. This includes integrating more technology into the classroom, such as artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), and gamified learning, to make lessons more interactive and engaging.

Expanding Interdisciplinary Learning:
I aim to foster greater collaboration between different health disciplines (e.g., public health, medicine, nursing, mental health) within the classroom. This will help students understand how various fields intersect, preparing them for the multifaceted challenges in the healthcare sector. I plan to build stronger interdisciplinary courses and projects to provide a more holistic education.

Promoting Health and Well-being in Education:
A key part of my vision is to further integrate health promotion and well-being into the curriculum—not only to teach students about health but also to model healthy habits and mindsets. By incorporating topics like stress management, resilience, and mental health into my teaching, I want to ensure that students graduate with the tools to maintain their health in a demanding career.

Mentorship and Lifelong Learning:
I am committed to serving as a mentor to my students, helping them navigate their educational and professional journeys. I hope to cultivate an environment where my students feel encouraged to pursue lifelong learning, always striving for improvement and growth in both their personal and professional lives.

In the coming future of health education will be deeply influenced by the following factors.

Technology Integration:
The future of health education will be heavily influenced by technological innovations. I foresee an even greater role for virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) in simulating real-life medical and health situations, allowing students to practice hands-on skills in a controlled, immersive environment. AI will also play a bigger role in personalized learning, tailoring educational experiences to meet the specific needs and learning paces of individual students.

Increased Focus on Preventative Health:
As global health challenges such as chronic diseases, mental health issues, and aging populations continue to rise, health education will increasingly focus on preventative care and holistic health. This includes promoting healthy lifestyles, nutrition, mental wellness, and community-based health solutions. Health education will not just be about treating illness but empowering individuals and communities to prevent it through education.

Global Health and Cultural Competency:
With the world becoming more interconnected, health education will need to address global health challenges and develop students’ cultural competency. I foresee more emphasis on global health issues such as infectious disease control, environmental health, and healthcare access in underserved communities. Educators will need to teach students how to work in diverse cultural contexts, as well as collaborate internationally to solve health crises.

Personalized and Adaptive Learning:
The evolution of health education will also involve a shift toward personalized learning through the use of learning analytics and AI. By using data from students’ performance, AI will tailor learning materials to the individual’s strengths and weaknesses. This will allow for more customized educational pathways, enhancing student success and engagement.

Integration of Mental and Physical Health:
In the next decade, I believe there will be a greater integration of mental health education with physical health education. This holistic approach will help students understand the interconnectedness of mental and physical well-being and prepare them to address both in their future healthcare roles.

Collaborative Learning Models:
As healthcare becomes more team-oriented, health education will adopt more collaborative learning models that mimic real-world healthcare settings. Students will learn to work in interdisciplinary teams, collaborating with peers from various fields to solve complex health problems, reflecting the teamwork required in modern healthcare environments.

In the next decade, I hope to continue contributing to the growth of health education by embracing new technology, promoting holistic health, and mentoring the next generation of healthcare professionals. I envision a future where health education is more accessible, personalized, and collaborative, ensuring that students are not only equipped with the knowledge to succeed in their careers but are also empowered to become advocates for health in their communities.

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Keywords: Health Sciences Education; Student-Centred Learning; Technology in Education; Health and Wellbeing; Practical Health Tips