Umeå University's logo

Introduction: This study aims to present an implementation of reflective professional development portfolios in pharmacy programs. The overall aim with the project is to stimulate pharmacy students’ professional development. Reflection can be a way to deal with new knowledge and increase professional confidence and competence. Since the process of learning professional values, attitudes and behaviours starts early, an emphasis on students’ development is crucial.

Methods: New written reflective assignments have been introduced in about 10 different courses in the pharmacy programs at Umeå University, Sweden. Students’ level of reflection was measured (on a 6-degree level of reflection scale) to establish students’ level without any further introduction to reflective thinking and learning in the current curricula.

Results: Preliminary results show low reflection in the first introduction course in the program (mean 3.08, 22% reflective, n¼49) and the level has only slightly increased at the 6th semester (mean 3,48, 48,8% reflective, n¼66) and on the 10th semester (mean 3,5, 50% reflective, n¼46). Interrater reliability was calculated by Cohens kappa k¼0,37-0,63. Results from more courses, feasibility, and interrater reliability are going to be evaluated and calculated this spring and presented at the conference.

Conclusions: Umeå University are introducing “Reflective professional development portfolios (RPDP)” as a learning activity integrated in all theoretical courses as writing assignments combined with mentor discussions (4 occasions) and summative portfolios (2 assignments) in the pharmacy curricula. Assessments and feedback on reflective writing of portfolios are planned to occur on several occasions and different levels including level of reflection, discussions on professionalism, and content. This baseline measurement can be used to assess the suggested curricula developments.