An outcomes-based approach to curriculum development in pharmacy

Am J Pharm Educ. 2009 Feb 19;73(1):14. doi: 10.5688/aj730114.

Abstract

Objective: To implement an outcomes-based approach to pharmacy curriculum development.

Design: Desired learning outcomes were identified; course content, learning activities, and assessment instruments were designed; and evaluation was conducted and feedback obtained to refine the curriculum.

Assessment: All professional skills, 4 generic capabilities, and the coherence of the curriculum scales showed significant improvement compared to graduates' performance under both the old and transitional curriculum.

Conclusion: An outcomes-based approach to pharmacy curriculum development provided convincing evidence of enhancement to the curriculum. Such an approach should be considered when implementing or revising pharmacy curriculum.

Keywords: assessment; curriculum; learning outcomes.

MeSH terms

  • Curriculum*
  • Education, Pharmacy / organization & administration*
  • Feedback
  • Hong Kong
  • Humans
  • Learning
  • Models, Educational*
  • Program Development / methods
  • Program Evaluation
  • Students, Pharmacy / psychology