Innovative learning in pharmacy practice: The perceived benefits of and barriers to a layered learning practice model

To assess pharmacy preceptors' perceptions of the benefits of and barriers to a layered learning practice model (LLPM) at their practice site.

An online survey was created using Qualtrics and sent to experiential directors at all colleges [or schools] of pharmacy in Ohio and at Big Ten universities. The experiential directors were asked to send the survey to all preceptors affiliated with their program. The survey assessed the perceived or actual benefits of and barriers to a layered learning model. Benefits and barriers to patient care, student or resident learning, and the practice site were assessed.

In total, 304 surveys were initiated by precepting pharmacists. Survey respondents reported precepting introductory pharmacy practice experience students (n = 113, 37.1%), advanced pharmacy practice experience students (n = 184, 60.5%), and residents (n = 176, 57.9%) throughout a given year. Survey respondents' most commonly identified benefits of a LLPM included an increase in patient access to pharmacy team members (n = 97, 42.3%), an increase in the number of precepting opportunities for learners (n = 80, 34.9%), and improvement in patient education (n = 76, 33.2%). The top identified barriers to a LLPM included performing precepting duties that may interfere with preceptor job responsibilities (n = 158, 72.1%), having inadequate workspace for learners (n = 120, 54.8%), and being unable to effectively teach or oversee multiple learners simultaneously (n = 77, 35.1%).

This research provides insight into pharmacy preceptor perception of how a LLPM impacts practice sites, patient care, and training of pharmacy learners. This information may be valuable in the design of preceptor development for colleges of pharmacy and residency programs.