Integrated Learning Experience (ILE): How do faculty define “high-quality”?

Title and Abstract  

• Clearly conveys the topic, population, and purpose of the project. 
• Provides a concise summary of the problem, methods, key findings, and implications.

Introduction 

• Public Health Problem: Clearly defines the public health issue being addressed, including scope, relevance, and affected populations. 
• Literature Review: Synthesizes key findings from existing research to contextualize the issue and highlight gaps.
• Research Question/Project Goal: Clearly states the central research question or project objective and aligns it with the purpose of the ILE. 

Methods 

• Justifies the chosen methodological approach. 
• Describes study design, setting, participants, and recruitment. 
• Details data collection tools, instruments, and procedures. 
• Addresses ethical considerations, including IRB approval if required. 

Results/Findings 

• Presents findings in a clear and logical manner, using tables or figures when appropriate. 
• Avoids interpretation or speculation; focuses on reporting data or outcomes. 

Discussion 

• Summarizes major findings. 
• Interprets key findings in the context of existing literature and public health practice. 
• Discusses strengths and limitations of the project or study. 

Conclusion  

Provides evidence-based recommendations for practice, policy, or future research, avoiding opinion-based or speculative statements. 

References 

• Includes complete and properly formatted references using a specified citation style (e.g., APA). 
• Ensures all in-text citations are accurately matched to the reference list. 

Formatting and Structure 

• Follows the structural and formatting expectations specific to the chosen project type (e.g., policy brief, program evaluation report, research paper). 
• Uses descriptive headings to guide the reader and signal topic transitions. 

Appendices 

Includes relevant supporting materials (e.g., data collection tools, IRB materials, consent forms) that enhance the reader’s understanding. 

Written Communication Skills 

• Uses precise, graduate-level vocabulary and public health terminology. 
• Organizes content logically and clearly, building from foundational ideas to more complex concepts. 
• Avoids vague language, unsupported claims, quotations, or informal tone. 
• Maintains high standards of grammar, spelling, punctuation, and sentence structure throughout. 
• Tailors communication to the appropriate audience (e.g., evaluation report for an organization’s employees).

Revised 10/27/25