Educational Mentor Program in a Web-based Doctor of Pharmacy Degree Pathway

• Published in: American journal of pharmaceutical education Vol. 70; no. 2; p. H1
• Main Authors: Alsharif, Naser Z, Schwartz, Amy H, Malone, Patrick M, Jensen, Gail
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Alexandria Elsevier Limited 01-03-2006
• Subjects: Conferences; Course Content; Distance learning; Education; Educational Needs; Educational Resources; Faculty Development; Information technology; Mentoring programs; Mentors; Pharmacy; Students; Teaching assistants
• ISSN: 0002-9459; 1553-6467

To establish a successful educational mentor program for the Web-based doctor of pharmacy pathway at Creighton University, School of Pharmacy and Health Professions. A recruitment process was established and the educational mentor's responsibilities were identified. The roles of faculty instructors, the Office of Information Technology and Learning Resources, the Office of Faculty Development and Assessment, and Web-based Pharmacy Pathway Office as it pertains to the training of educational mentors were clearly delineated. An evaluation process for all key aspects of the program was also put in place. Student, instructor, and mentor evaluations showed overall satisfaction with the program. Persistent areas of concern include the difficulty in motivating students to participate and/or engage in learning with the mentors. Many students remain unclear about mentors' roles and responsibilities. Lastly, in regards to mentors, there is a limited utilization of provided online resources. The educational mentor program has become an invaluable component of the Web pathway and has enhanced the interactions of students with the content and mentor.