Faculty and student perceptions of a co-curriculum within a doctor of pharmacy program

Abstract

Background

Colleges and schools of pharmacy have implemented co-curricular programs that complement didactic and experiential learning within Doctor of Pharmacy programs. These programs are varied but all are directed at achieving educational outcomes, which may change based on accreditation standards.

Objective

The objective of this project was to describe student and faculty perceptions of the co-curricular program in one doctor of pharmacy program.

Methods

Two surveys were developed to assess the co-curricular program, one for faculty and one for students. Both surveys consisted of quantitative and qualitative elements, and both were comprised of three sections: overall program satisfaction, activities and reflections, and program logistics. Surveys were distributed via email to all Doctor of Pharmacy students and faculty and remained open for two weeks.

Results

Response rate for the faculty and student surveys was 59.3 % (19 of 32) and 48.2 % (131 of 272), respectively. Overall satisfaction with the co-curricular program was rated as a median of 7 (interquartile range [IQR], 6–8) for faculty and a median of 6 (IQR, 5–8) for students on a 10-point scale with 10 being the most highly satisfied and one being not satisfied at all. Qualitative results revealed that faculty and students supported the program and its intent but find room for improvements. Suggested improvements included: ensuring consistent offerings of co-curricular activities in both quantity and quality, decreasing the number of required reflections, and encouraging timeliness and quality in student submissions and in faculty reviews.

Conclusion

Faculty and students expressed general support for the co-curricular program and offered several ways to enhance the program. These insights will be important to improve the program in this college of pharmacy and beyond, especially with new accreditation standards and educational outcomes.