A service-learning elective to promote enhanced understanding of civic, cultural, and social issues and health disparities in pharmacy.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the effectiveness and impact of an elective service-learning course offered in cooperation with a charitable pharmacy providing services to the surrounding community.


METHODS
The 33 students enrolled in the service-learning elective were given a 23-question preservice survey instrument and a 32-question postservice survey instrument. The survey instruments were designed to measure change in the students' perceived knowledge and understanding regarding civic, cultural, and social issues and health disparities.


RESULTS
Significant differences in responses on the presurvey and postsurvey instruments suggested changes in students' attitudes and perceptions about the patients and the community in which they serve.


CONCLUSIONS
Results of the survey indicated that by exposing students to issues affecting individuals and the community during this elective, a positive change in the student's perception of their knowledge and understanding of broader issues facing the community was observed. Service-Learning courses provide additional opportunities for students to develop as competent, engaged, and caring health care professionals.
Brown
Bethanne
B
University of Cincinnati College of Pharmacy, OH 45227-0004, USA. bethanne.brown@uc.edu
Heaton
Pamela C
PC
Wall
Andrea
A
D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel / Q000208:ethnology*; D002961:Civil Rights / Q000193:education*; D032882:Comprehension; D018864:Cultural Diversity; D004512:Education, Pharmacy / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D007858:Learning; D010604:Pharmacy / Q000379:methods; D012935:Social Justice / Q000193:education*