NEWS
Faculty Spotlight: Lowell Sanders
Dr. Lowell Sanders is a clinical associate professor of health informatics in the Byrdine F. Lewis College of Nursing & Health Professions. A pharmacist by training, he is an educator with over 14 years of experience in higher education that includes traditional classroom instruction, facilitating online courses, and experiential education.
Dr. Sanders shared insights that provide a glimpse into his expertise, teaching philosophy, and valuable career advice for anyone considering a path in health informatics.
Read the Q&A, courtesy of the Lewis College, below.
How do you see your field evolving in 5-10 years?
From what I can tell, there will continue to be an emphasis on data-driven healthcare involving the increased use of AI for decision support.
How do you foster a supportive and inclusive learning environment in your classes?
I like to provide students with all the tools they need to succeed. This involves establishing clear expectations at the very beginning of each semester. I also emphasize that my classes welcome a variety of perspectives and opinions that should be respected by all in attendance.
What classes do you teach for HI & what drew you to this profession?
I teach two undergrad courses: Security & Privacy Through Healthcare Technology and Project Management in Health Informatics. I also teach two grad courses: Healthcare Information Security and Introduction to Healthcare Project Management. I landed in Health Informatics as a result of being a pharmacist using EHR and pharmacovigilance platforms.
How do you integrate your research into your teaching?
In general, I try to incorporate evidence-based practices into the courses I teach. That said, I do not believe in jumping on the bandwagon of every new technology or methodology that comes along.
Can you tell us about your background and journey to becoming a faculty member here?
I was in education prior to going to pharmacy school. After graduating and working in medical affairs for a short time, the opportunity to work at GSU came my way. Luckily it worked out.
What advice do you have for students interested in your field?
Whereas studying is important, it is not sufficient. Get out and network. Join organizations like the Student Health Informatics Association (S.H.I.A.) where you can make connections with industry professionals that can lead to internships and job opportunities.
Q&A originally published by the Byrdine F. Lewis College of Nursing & Health Professions communications team at this link. (Archival access here.)