Development of a Global Health Learning Progression (GHELP) Model

Area of Science:

• Pharmacy Education
• Global Health
• Experiential Learning

Background:

• Increasing global health opportunities in healthcare training necessitate a framework for understanding student learning.
• International Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences (APPEs) offer valuable global health learning, but the learning process requires definition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a conceptual learning model for students undertaking international APPEs.
• To contextualize global health learning and identify key developmental stages.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative analysis of post-international APPE surveys (n=81) and focus groups (n=22) from three universities.
• A two-cycle open coding process was used to analyze data and derive a learning model.

Main Results:

• The Global Health Experience Learning Progression (GHELP) model was developed.
• The GHELP model features three constructs and illustrates progression from cultural awareness to cultural sensitivity.
• The model incorporates internal and external influences on student learning.

Conclusions:

• The GHELP model provides a framework for understanding student learning in international APPEs.
• This model can guide the development of global health curricula and experiential programs.
• It highlights the development of essential global health knowledge, skills, and attitudes in student pharmacists.