title: Scottish pharmacists' perceptions and experiences of a practice-based small group learning pilot: a qualitative study.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  CPD is an important feature of healthcare professions and regulatory bodies consider it mandatory. Studies of CPD activity of pharmacists showed that 10% were undertaking no CPD. Practice-based small group learning (PBSGL) is a well-received and popular learning resource for GPs in Scotland. From 2011, a pharmacy pilot was undertaken: pharmacists were trained as peer-facilitators and existing PBSGL modules were adapted. Four NHS boards took part and this study aimed to explore the perceptions and experiences of pharmacists.
  
  
  METHODS
  A qualitative research approach was adopted using focus groups and in-depth interviews. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcriptions made. Transcripts were coded and themes developed using grounded theory methods.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Participants welcomed PBSGL: it was a feasible learning method, acceptable and had educational impact. They appreciated its interactive nature and discussions founded on their experiences in practice. Participants liked the self-reliance of PBSGL in that they were not dependent on specialist practitioners. There were logistical challenges that impacted on the success of group discussion; some pharmacists were less familiar with small group work. Pharmacists felt isolated during work and appreciated peer discussion. There was a tentative welcome to inter-professional learning but group composition and module topics might impact on the success of this.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Pharmacists were able to change their learning practice in uni-professional PBSGL groups and were able to learn from each other. There may be further learning opportunities if pharmacists participate in inter-professional groups.
authors.forename: David E
authors.initials: DE
authors.lastname: Cunningham
authors.forename: Leon
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Zlotos
authors.forename: Ailsa
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Power
mesh_terms: D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D004513:Education, Pharmacy, Continuing / Q000379:methods* / Q000458:organization & administration; D017144:Focus Groups; D006126:Group Processes; D006801:Humans; D007400:Interprofessional Relations; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D010595:Pharmacists / Q000523:psychology*; D010865:Pilot Projects; D018794:Problem-Based Learning / Q000379:methods* / Q000458:organization & administration; D015397:Program Evaluation / Q000379:methods; D036301:Qualitative Research; D012606:Scotland