The Challenges of Professional Development in the Evolving World of Pharmacy Education

Abstract

The primary purpose of schools and colleges of pharmacy is to produce pharmacists capable of providing competentpatient centered care. To accomplish this goal, pharmacy students must learn and retain a great deal of knowledge aswell as develop professional attitudes and behaviors. In recent years, several articles have been published questioningthe professionalism of pharmacy students and whether colleges of pharmacy are promoting professionalism(Hammer, 2003; Chisholm, 2004). Professionalism has a broad definition and encompasses every aspect of the dutyof a pharmacist. The definition of professionalism and a discussion of professional socialization roadblocks areimportant considerations when establishing guidance to students and faculty. Responsibilities of the student andresponsibilities of the educator should be clear to all involved. E-professionalism presents a new consideration whenoutlining professionalism standards to pharmacy students and should be addressed as well. Colleges of pharmacymust develop methodologies to aid in the development of professionalism among pharmacy students in all types oflearning environments, whether a student attends a traditional campus or a distance campus. Finally, with theimplementation of distance campuses, professionalism is presented with new and unique challenges which requirecontinuous evaluation to prevent negative outcomes.