(55) Better together: Improving efficiencies and learning opportunities in a multi-pathway program

Objective : The University of Colorado Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Science's PharmD program has multiple pathways (on-campus, online) and learners (entry-level, mid-career) working toward similar goals. Previously, these learners were taught separately. Resource constraints (e.g., fewer instructors available) and technology advances (e.g., video conferencing) motivated us to explore “harmonizing” instruction, beginning with an evidence-based medicine (EBM) course.

Methods: We harmonized EBM instruction by synchronizing schedules; combining instances in the learning managing system; allowing all learners to attend class synchronously via Zoom; and allowing all learners to access the course recordings. Group learning activities and assessments were similar but distinct. To collect feedback, we administered a survey to mid-career online learners and held a focus group with entry-level learners. We also compared course grades to previous offerings.

Results: Twenty-one mid-career online and 83 entry-level learners completed the EBM course. Ten mid-career online learners completed the end-of-course survey. Nearly one-quarter (22%) never attended class in real-time, 44% attended up to half the classes in real-time, and 33% attended more than half the classes in real-time. Half of respondents indicated they performed better academically in the harmonized course and 80% indicated they would prefer to have all their courses harmonized. The eight entry-level learners in the focus group all agreed the inclusion of the mid-career learners in the course was not a distraction. Exam scores for mid-career online learners and entry-level learners were similar to prior years.

Conclusions: Learner and instructor results (e.g., satisfaction, learning, efficiency) from the harmonized course were positive. Lessons learned in technology, accessibility, and design are informing the harmonization of subsequent courses. Three additional courses will be harmonized in Spring 2023.