Perceived Impact of Pharmacy Student Projects on Education, Professional Practice, and the Community - A Descriptive Study

Abstract

Specific Aims: To evaluate the perceived impact of student research projects. Methods: This study employed a descriptive, prospective design using a cross sectional questionnaire. People who have served as a University of Arizona College of Pharmacy (UA COP) preceptor or advisor for a Quality Improvement (QI) or a senior project for the Class of 2020 cohort were sent a link to a questionnaire in Fall 2020 to gather their perceptions of project impact. The questionnaire collected data and/or opinions about domains addressed in the Buxton and Hanney Payback Framework which includes knowledge production, benefits to future research, informing policy and product development, health, economic, and health sector benefits. Main Results: A 55% response rate was achieved (33 of 60) for the survey. Over 70% of preceptors responding perceived that the student projects helped them, their site, or their patients. More than 50% of the participants agreed/strongly agreed that QI awareness was enhanced by student projects. Additionally, more than 60% of the participants agreed/strongly agreed that student projects improved dissemination of information, products or evidence-based practices that significantly impacted the quality of care. Conclusions: QI and senior projects are perceived to have a qualitative and a quantitative impact on education, professional practice, and the community.