Biology Faculty Proceedings, Presentations, Speeches, Lectures

Navigating COVID-19-based Challenges to Global Education, Research, and Management in Healthcare and STEM

Event Name/Location

Undergraduate Student Symposium, Nova Southeastern University

Date Range

April 6-8, 2021

Presentation Date

4-2021

Document Type

Conference Presentation

Description

The Coronavirus Infectious Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has affected most nations at all levels of functioning, individual to governmental. This study provides a comprehensive review of the global consequences of the pandemic on key socioeconomic sectors – healthcare management, and education and research in healthcare as well as science, technology, education, and mathematics (STEM). COVID-19 halted face-to-face classes and meetings in schools and colleges worldwide, necessitating virtual instruction as academic institutions sought to continue education safely, yet effectively. This adversely impacted every field of learning, especially STEM and healthcare education since STEM degrees entail rigorous curricula integrating lectures and laboratory exercises whereas healthcare education involves hands-on, clinical lab activities and residencies that require working with patients. Research in high-needs STEM disciplines has been prioritized in the fight against COVID-19. Computational scientists, artificial intelligence experts, engineers, virologists, and mathematicians have been contributing with strategies to optimize patient care, enhance public understanding of the disease, track reported cases, and improve physical-distancing measures. Healthcare management facilities have implemented various operational changes geared towards reducing non-emergency patient visits and preventing infection transmission; these include shifting appointments to online modalities, altering procedures, and developing personal protective equipment (PPE). Multifaceted research endeavors have been undertaken to develop treatments or a potential cure for COVID-19; vaccines and antiviral drugs are being designed or undergoing clinical trials, while symptom-management approaches are being employed along with evaluation of pre-existing conditions. The analysis will help better understand and address complex COVID-19-induced challenges facing education, research, and management in global healthcare and STEM.

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