Publication Type: Abstract
Abstract: Objective: Students in online Nontraditional Doctor of Pharmacy (NTPD) Degree Programs oftentimes are interested in pursuing a career in academia. Many of these students reside in rural areas and are unable to visit academic settings to receive instruction during their advanced pharmacy practice experiences (APPE). An online Educational Project rotation was developed for the University of Colorado (CU) NTPD program to provide an opportunity for students to experience academia under the guidance of a faculty preceptor.

Methods: The online Educational Project rotation is available to students in the NTPD program having completed four required ADSM courses and Instructional Methods. Students are accepted on a full-time (200 hours completed over 5 weeks) or part-time (200 hours completed over a semester) basis. Initially, the student writes goals and learning objectives for the rotation. This is the beginning of the teaching portfolio showcasing the student’s accomplishments during the rotation. Relevant CAPE outcomes are identified by the student to develop the assessment tool. Literature and Internet evaluation of educationally related publications and websites is an integral component. The student participates in didactic online courses by grading, mentoring, and facilitating threaded discussions. Development of an educational module is the rotation’s capstone project. It includes an outline, learning objectives, readings, PowerPoint slides with audio, a threaded discussion, and assessment and instructor evaluation tools.

Implications: Schools/Colleges of Pharmacy struggle to recruit qualified faculty. The NTPD online educational rotation offers students the opportunity to explore a potential academic career at a distance.