Using Forensic Cases to Introduce First Year Pharmacy Students to Forensic Pharmacy and Strengthen Student Learning in Basic Sciences.

Abstract

Description of the problem: Forensic pharmacy is a scientific field in which trained forensic pharmacists apply their knowledge to assist law enforcement agencies in solving criminal cases. The role of forensic pharmacists is not emphasized in the pharmacy curriculum, and there is limited information about how faculty can introduce pharmacy students to this field. The innovation: A unique curricular activity was created to introduce first-year pharmacy students to the craft of forensic pharmacy and promote student learning of basic sciences. Thirteen teams (68 students total) participated in this activity. Each team watched an episode of a TV show, Forensic Files; prepared a report; and presented data covering factors contributing to the incident, safety measures, the roles a forensic pharmacist plays in various criminal cases, mechanisms of action, major toxicities, and indications for the drug or compound that contributed to the harm. Critical analysis: An anonymous survey tool was administered, with a 57% respondent rate, to assess the effectiveness of the activity. Approximately 70% of students agreed that the activity strengthened their knowledge in basic sciences, 75% agreed it promoted presentation and critical-thinking skills, and 80% agreed that the activity encouraged teamwork and self-directed learning. In addition, the activity promoted the six levels of Bloom's taxonomy to support student learning. Next steps: Faculty can generate elective courses to introduce pharmacy students to forensic pharmacy and use real-life forensic cases to strengthen student learning.