A programme to enrich undergraduate education through participation in clinical pharmacy research

Recent publications have emphasized the need to produce graduates who can think critically, solve problems, and communicate effectively. We have offered experience in clinical pharmacy research to undergraduates with the objective of developing these qualities. Over the last 10 years, 44 students have participated in the clinical research programme for 6 months to 2 years. Each student was assigned a specific project. The activities of participants included reviewing the literature, defining rationale and hypothesis, conducting laboratory and/or clinical research, analysing data, and interpreting and presenting results both verbally and in writing. Areas of research have included pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, efficacy, safety, infusion methods, and the stability of drugs used in paediatric patients. The programme has been well received by students. The work led to 30 publications and the majority of the students entered advanced education or training following graduation. Our experience suggests that participation in clinical pharmacy research can enhance the education of undergraduate students by exposing them to various elements of critical thinking, problem solving and communication skills.