Strategies to grow an experiential learning program-The role of administrators

Area of Science:

• Pharmacy Education
• Experiential Learning
• Program Development

Background:

• Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) standards present challenges for expanding experiential learning programs.
• Administrative leadership is crucial for the success and growth of these programs.
• Experiential learning programs require strategic planning and resource allocation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide practical strategies for growing experiential learning programs.
• To emphasize the critical role of administrators in program expansion.
• To share lessons learned from a specific university's experience.

Main Methods:

• Brainstorming challenges and solutions within the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy's experiential learning program.
• Implementing identified solutions to address program growth.
• Documenting program changes and outcomes over time.

Main Results:

• Increased numbers of preceptors and diverse rotation types.
• Expansion of the clinical track program.
• Improved learning management system functionality and higher satisfaction rates among preceptors, sites, and students.

Conclusions:

• Effective administrative leadership and strategic problem-solving are key to successful experiential learning program growth.
• The strategies implemented at the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy offer a valuable model for other institutions.
• Continuous program evaluation and adaptation are essential for meeting evolving standards and stakeholder needs.