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

With the newly released ACPE standards, challenges exist in growing experiential learning programs at many schools. The role of administrators in the experiential learning office, practice department, and the dean׳s office is critical for success. This article provides practical tips and strategies to help grow an experiential learning program by emphasizing the role of administrators. In 2012, the administrators of the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy brainstormed and came up with a list of challenges faced by its experiential learning program, provided suggested solutions to each challenge, and began a process of implementing solutions to help grow the program. As of fall 2014, we were able to document increases in the numbers of preceptors and different rotation types, growth in the clinical track program, changes in our learning management system to better accommodate our needs, and increases in satisfaction rates among our preceptors, sites, and students. This article summarizes the challenges faced by University of Maryland Experiential Learning Program, the practical solutions implemented, and the role of leadership in growing the program. Many of the suggestions and lessons learned here can benefit many programs with similar challenges.