Logo image
A Qualitative Exploration of Student Pharmacists' Perspectives of ACPE Standard 4 Key Element Skill Acquisition
Abstract   Peer reviewed

A Qualitative Exploration of Student Pharmacists' Perspectives of ACPE Standard 4 Key Element Skill Acquisition

Logan Murry, Amy M. Pick, Janice Murry and Matthew Witry
American journal of pharmaceutical education, Vol.87(8), 100200
08/2023
DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpe.2023.100200

View Online

Abstract

Objective The objectives of this study were to explore student pharmacists’ perspectives on 1) ACPE-S4 key elements and 2) programs and activities for supporting skill development. Methods This study used focus groups with P1, P2, P3, and P4 students to collect qualitative data on their perspectives regarding ACPE-S4 key element importance and skill acquisition. Content analysis was used to analyze data, with 2 study authors independently reviewing all transcripts and assigning open codes to text segments. Authors then met to discuss coding, iteratively organizing coded segments into categories, and selecting representative quotes. Results Overall, 5 focus groups were conducted with a total of 12 students, with a range of 2 to 4 participants per focus group. Students ranked professionalism and self-awareness as the 2 most important key elements, viewing these skills as foundational to professional development. Students named a variety of activities and opportunities for ACPE-S4 development. Mentorship was broad and included both a formal mentoring program, peer mentoring, and mentoring outside the academic setting. Regarding the curriculum, practice lab and APPEs were particularly valuable, especially with non-graded activities and feedback. The co-curriculum was important for developing leadership experience, although there appeared to be high variation in S4 skill development experiences among students. Outside the academic setting, students benefited from work experiences, including role models and mentorship. Conclusions Participants articulated several opportunities for the development of skills reflecting ACPE-S4 key elements. Incorporating student input into S4 skill development may help pharmacy programs consider how to design, refine, and implement initiatives and experiences to help students develop skills across S4 focus areas.

Details

Metrics

13 Record Views
Logo image