Resource Library

This project report addresses the important issue of the consistency and quality of Pharmacology teaching across institutions in Australia.  It is, in effect, a comprehensive scoping exercise carried out in 2008. Importantly, it draws on information from students, academics and industry stakeholders. The project also involved a number of workshops integrated with the pharmacological society interest groups. The data obtained provides for a strong foundation for future curriculum development. Another important outcome is the formation of an education network within the discipline to provide a platform for ongoing curriculum renewal.

This is a well-written, clearly presented stand-alone resource that is an excellent exemplar of how such scoping activities should be conducted. The survey covers different cohorts of students in the science and health sciences area who have to learn pharmacological principles. The survey instrument is appended to the report and, as such, provides a very useful template for others to adapt. It would be of significant use and interest to a broad range of other discipline-based initiatives that are planning such a comprehensive benchmarking exercise. In particular, this report would be of considerable value to other disciplines who engage in service teaching of standard content to diverse student cohorts.

One of the more interesting findings relate to the data around the student's preferred teaching/learning methods. This information has implications that may well extend beyond the health sciences. Future developments from this project should be accessible through the newly-formed Australian Pharmacology and Therapeutics Education Network (APTEN).