title: A model for self-directed problem-based learning for renal therapeutics.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To introduce a new approach to problem-based learning (PBL) for self-directed learning in renal therapeutics.
  
  
  METHODS
  This 5-week course, designed for large student cohorts using minimal teaching resources, was based on a series of case studies and subsequent pharmaceutical care plans, followed by intensive and regular feedback from the instructor.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Assessment of achievement of the learning outcomes was based on weekly-graded care plans and peer review assessment, allowing each student to judge the contributions of each group member and their own, along with a written case-study based examination. The pharmaceutical care plan template, designed using a "tick-box" system, significantly reduced staff time for feedback and scoring.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The proposed instructional model achieved the desired learning outcomes with appropriate student feedback, while promoting skills that are essential for the students' future careers as health care professionals.
authors.affiliation: School of Pharmacy, University of Reading, UK. k.strohfeldt@reading.ac.uk
authors.forename: Katja
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Strohfeldt
authors.forename: Daniel T
authors.initials: DT
authors.lastname: Grant
mesh_terms: D003479:Curriculum; D004512:Education, Pharmacy / Q000379:methods*; D004521:Educational Measurement; D005246:Feedback; D006801:Humans; D007674:Kidney Diseases / Q000628:therapy; D017145:Models, Educational; D010380:Peer Review; D018794:Problem-Based Learning / Q000379:methods*; D013339:Students, Pharmacy