How does undergraduate experiential learning shape the transition from pharmacy student to trainee pharmacist: a qualitative study
This study wants to understand how the hands-on training pharmacy students get in places like hospitals and pharmacies in Scotland helps them prepare for their first year as trainee pharmacists. Researchers will talk to trainee pharmacists about their experiences during these placements. They want to know what worked well, what felt challenging, and what could be improved to help future students feel ready for their careers. This project aims to gather opinions on how well these placements prepare students, how they help develop skills and confidence, and what changes could make the training even more effective. The goal is to make sure pharmacy students get the best possible practical experience before they become fully qualified pharmacists.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Imagine you're learning to become a pharmacist in Scotland. You've spent years studying at university, and now you're doing hands-on training in real hospitals and local pharmacies. This practical experience is a very important part of becoming a fully qualified pharmacist. This study wants to find out how well those placements actually prepare students for their first year as a trainee pharmacist after graduating.
The researchers will talk to people who are currently in their first year of training as pharmacists. They will ask them about their time during these practical placements – what they learned, what they found easy, what was difficult, and what they think could be done differently to help future students. This includes talking about feeling ready for the job, gaining skills and confidence, and how useful the feedback they received was.
The goal of this study is to gather ideas directly from those who have been through the process. By understanding their experiences, both good and bad, the study hopes to suggest ways to make the training even better. Ultimately, this could help make sure that all future pharmacists in Scotland are extremely well-prepared to provide excellent care when they begin their careers.
Key takeaways
- This study explores how practical experience helps trainee pharmacists.
- It aims to improve future pharmacy training in Scotland.
- Participation involves a single, 30-minute interview.
- Your identity and answers will be kept confidential.
- No significant risks are expected from taking part.
- It is funded by NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for trainee pharmacists who are currently in their first year of supervised training to become a pharmacist in Scotland. To take part, you must have completed your pharmacy degree at one of the two pharmacy schools in Scotland.
You should also be working in Scotland during your trainee year, whether that's in a hospital, a local community pharmacy, or a mix of different healthcare settings.
However, if you completed your pharmacy degree outside of Scotland, this study is not for you. You also need to be at least 18 years old to participate.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you currently a trainee pharmacist in Scotland?
- Did you complete your pharmacy degree (MPharm) at a Scottish university?
- Are you in your Foundation Training Year?
- Are you working in a hospital, community, or other healthcare setting in Scotland?
- Are you 18 years or older?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, you will have one interview. This interview will be in person and will last about 30 minutes. During the interview, you'll be asked about your experiences with the practical training you had during your pharmacy degree and how it helped you prepare for your trainee year. The conversation will be recorded so the researchers can accurately remember what was said, and then it will be written down.
Before the interview, some basic background information will also be collected, such as whether you are male or female, to help the researchers understand the group of people they are speaking with. This is a one-off interview, and there will be no further visits or follow-ups required after it.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (5)
- Pharmacy Services NHS Greater Glasgow and ClydeCity onlyGlasgow, Scotland
- NHS Lanarkshire Pharmacy Education and TrainingCity onlyGlasgow, Scotland
- Highlands and Islands Pharmacy Education and ResearchCity onlyInverness, Scotland
- NHS Grampian Pharmacy Education and TrainingCity onlyAberdeen, Scotland
- NHS Lothian Pharmacy Education, Research and DevelopmentCity onlyEdinburgh, Scotland
Common questions
What is a 'trainee pharmacist'?
A trainee pharmacist is someone who has finished their university degree and is now doing a year of supervised practical work before becoming a fully qualified pharmacist.
What does 'experiential learning' mean?
This refers to hands-on, practical training you get in real places like hospitals or pharmacies, rather than just learning from books in a classroom.
How long will the interview take?
The interview will last about 30 minutes.
Will my answers be kept private?
Yes, all your information will be kept confidential and private, following strict NHS guidelines.
Will taking part affect my job or training?
No, your decision to take part (or not to take part, or to withdraw) will not affect your job or training in any way.
How to find out more
Clodagh Clarke
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Discussion
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