Utilizing innovative teaching methods to design a new geriatric pharmacy elective

The geriatric population is growing faster than ever. Pharmacy educators must ensure students are prepared to care for this population through the use of both required and elective courses. In order to bridge the gap between education and real-world practice, colleges of pharmacy have incorporated innovative teaching methods to promote problem-based learning (PBL) that focus on clinical decision-making.

The Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education Accreditation Standards and the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists provide guidance on incorporating geriatric topics into doctor of pharmacy curricula. However, emphasis should also be placed on content delivery and providing an interactive, enjoyable learning environment. To meet this need, the University of Florida created a geriatric-focused elective that utilizes innovative teaching methods to reinforce understanding of material. In this commentary, we discuss questions to consider when developing a geriatric elective and recommend specific and unique innovative teaching methods that can be incorporated to promote PBL.

Pharmacists must possess the knowledge to address the unique needs of geriatric patients. Creating geriatric-focused electives bridges the gap between theory and practice. Utilizing innovative teaching methods can increase engagement, spark creative thinking, and promote retainment of skills necessary to care for the aging population.