The reported project-based laboratory unit introduces upper-division undergraduate students to the basics of computer-aided drug discovery as a part of a computational chemistry laboratory course. The students learn to perform model binding of organic molecules (ligands) to the DNA minor groove with computer-aided drug discovery (CADD) tools. The…

To enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills, a project-based learning (PBL) approach for "Instrumental Techniques" courses in undergraduate physical chemistry was specifically developed for a pharmacy bachelor degree program. The starting point of this PBL was an open-ended question that is close to the student scientist's…

High-resolution solid-state NMR (SSNMR) spectroscopy has many advantages as a tool to characterize solid-phase material that finds applications in polymer chemistry, nanotechnology, materials science, biomolecular structure determination, and others, including the pharmaceutical industry. The technology associated with achieving high resolution…

Red yeast rice, produced by fermenting the fungus, "Monascus purpureus", on rice ("Oryza sativa" L. gramineae), is commonly used as a dietary supplement. It contains lovastatin, a member of the statin family of compounds, and is licensed for use as a cholesterol-lowering agent. This experiment involves the isolation and structure elucidation of…

Objectives: The aim of this study was: (1) to investigate the feasibility of incorporating the Triple A programme into the undergraduate pharmacy curriculum; (2) to compare the effect of the Triple A programme versus problem-based learning methods on the asthma knowledge of final-year pharmacy students and their perceived confidence in dealing…

Generally work-based learning opportunities are only offered to students in their penultimate year of undergraduate study. Little is known about the benefits and shortcomings of such experiential learning for students in the early stages of their undergraduate education. This is a mixed method study investigating first year undergraduate pharmacy…

While most of the more frequently used self-report measures of cultural competence in health professionals are targeted to practicing physicians and mental health providers from the majority-white population, no measures have been specifically developed for minority pharmacy students. With the objective to find a suitable tool to be used for…

Objectives of research to investigate recruitment activities by colleges of pharmacy were: to determine the extent of declining applications to pharmacy schools, to identify recruitment activities conducted by pharmacy schools, and to determine the perceived importance of specific recruitment activities. (Author/MLW)

An informational videotape was used as a means to increase enrollment of qualified applicants to an undergraduate pharmacy program. Accepted applicants watched the videotape and answered pre- and post-questionnaires. Analysis of the instruments showed that students had an increase in positive attitudes towards attending college. (Author/MLW)

Member institutions of the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy are listed and information concerning the levels of degrees offered and the number of years of college study required prior to enrolling in the school/college of pharmacy is included. (SF)

A study evaluated the use of a video cassette as an early recruitment tool, with respect to promoting viewer awareness and increasing rate of application to the undergraduate pharmacy program. Analysis of questionnaires showed that the videotape increased knowledge the profession. (Author/MLW)

An ethics manual to support undergraduate lectures or practitioners in a healthcare environment has been developed. The manual was developed from course materials designed to ensure an integrated approach throughout a four year pharmacy program as teaching professionalism, as well as professional ethics, has become increasingly important and a…

Great Britain's Nuffield report and the United States' Millis report suggesting strategies for reform in pharmaceutical education and pharmacy practice are compared. (MSE)

An undergraduate track in retail pharmacy management was designed to prepare students better for everyday needs in community pharmacy. Multiple teaching approaches were used. Student response has been positive and enrollment has increased substantially. Graduate recommendations for course improvement are minimal. Course descriptions are appended.…

A discussion of sterile products in pharmacy looks at recent concerns in the health care community, action by professional associations, recommendations and guidelines for professional training of pharmacists and technicians, current and proposed curricula for undergraduate, graduate, continuing, industrial, and cooperative programs and…