Welcome to the distance learning element of the 19^th ETC-PHHP Summer Course. In preparation for the contact part of the course, you are required to undertake distance learning consisting of a written paper and reading the background literature. The paper must be completed and handed in by Friday 2^nd of July 2010. You will receive feedback on your essay from your tutor during the distance learning period and although it is not formally assessed it must be completed and submitted in order to receive the full 8 credits (ECTS). You should send your completed paper to your distance learning tutor via e-mail and to the address at the end of this document.

The distance learning element of the ETC-PHHP Summer Course is divided into two sections:

• A 3000 word essay or paper
• The preparation of a country profile, where appropriate in conjunction with other students from the same home country, to be presented during the first week of the summer course. This gives fellow participants an insight into the different various social, cultural and health contexts present at the course

The aim of the distance learning assignment is to familiarise and contextualize participants to the key concepts and themes of the summer course: Building Civil Society for Health and Social Capital and Health. Secondly, the assignment will help ensure all participants have a similar baseline of knowledge on Building Civil Society for Health, which will make it easier for all of us to navigate further and faster during the programme in Magdeburg.

We acknowledge that you are all busy with everyday demands of life and work but it is essential that you complete the preparatory work outlined here so that your time at the summer programme will be more effective and rewarding.