A knowledge exchange programme: bringing together student pharmacists and school pupils.

Tonna, Antonella; Depasquale, Clare

Abstract

Knowledge exchange is described as "a process that brings together academic staff, users of research, and wider groups and communities, to exchange ideas, evidence and expertise." This knowledge exchange programme uses peer education as a pedagogical approach, where student pharmacists are the educators sharing their expertise with the learners – in this case, primary school pupils aged 8 to 9 years old. The programme contributes to widening and enhancing the educational experiences of student pharmacists, while supporting their development of communication skills with diverse populations. The aim of this research was to develop the content, pilot delivery and evaluate the effectiveness of an innovative Medicines Safety School Programme delivered by student pharmacists to primary school pupils. A collaborative approach between academic staff and primary school teachers developed an interactive workshop focusing on the benefits of medicines when used correctly, and the harmful effects associated with misuse of medicines. After piloting by academic staff in the same school, student pharmacists delivered the programme. A post-placement online survey explored student pharmacists' views on how their involvement supported their professional development. Classed as a service evaluation, ethical approval was not required. The pilot was delivered to 72 pupils. Results from pre- and post-workshop surveys completed by pupils showed that, after the workshop, there was increased understanding of the benefits and potential risks associated with medicines. Post-workshop evaluations completed by teachers rated the workshop as excellent in aspects including topic presentation and effective linking to school/national curricula. 77 student pharmacists delivered the programme to 296 primary pupils. Student pharmacist responses to a post-placement online survey showed that completing this placement had benefited their professional development and increased their confidence when interacting with young children. Initial positive stakeholder responses indicate the success of this knowledge exchange programme, supporting plans for integration within the undergraduate pharmacy curriculum.

Citation

TONNA, A. and DEPASQUALE, C. 2023. A knowledge exchange programme: bringing together student pharmacists and school pupils. Presented at the 2023 International higher education teaching and learning annual conference (HETL 2023): re-imagining education: collaboration and compassion, 12-14 June 2023, Aberdeen, UK.

• Presentation Conference Type: Presentation / Talk
• Conference Name: 2023 International higher education teaching and learning annual conference (HETL 2023): re-imagining education: collaboration and compassion
• Start Date: Jun 12, 2023
• End Date: Jun 14, 2023
• Deposit Date: Jun 26, 2023
• Publicly Available Date: Jun 26, 2023
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Keywords: Pharmacy students; Primary schools; Student placements
• Public URL: https://rgu-repository.worktribe.com/output/1997481