Abstract

This study explores the use of When They See Us, a Netflix miniseries depicting the wrongful convictions of the Central Park Five, as a teaching tool in an undergraduate public health course. The series was integrated into the curriculum to help students examine the social determinants of health (SDOH) and the social-ecological model (SEM) through the lens of systemic racism and the criminal justice system. As part of the course, students analyzed the series using public health frameworks and proposed evidence-based interventions across multiple levels of influence. A mixed-methods approach was used to assess the impact of the assignment, drawing on rubric-based evaluations of student papers, thematic analysis of reflection responses, and post-course survey data. Quantitative results showed strong student performance in applying theoretical models, identifying structural drivers of health disparities, and developing practical, multi-level solutions. Qualitative findings pointed to increased emotional engagement, empathy, and critical reflection on the relationship between injustice, trauma, and health. Students reported that the series made course concepts more tangible and deepened their understanding of the broader systems that shape health outcomes. While some found the material emotionally challenging or entered with limited background knowledge, the overall findings suggest that narrative media can be a powerful tool for public health education. This approach not only supports the application of theory to real-world issues but also encourages critical thinking and prepares students to engage in equity-focused public health practice.

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