On March 4, 2024, two of the GMU PharmD students in their academic pharmacy rotation debated on letter grade versus pass/fail system of assessment in rotations. Nursing and Medicine students joined the conversation mentioning their viewpoints. It was an active discussion with many ideas and examples mentioned about studies, rotation, and practice. Scope of both systems and a mix of them were proposed to fit better in different contexts.
On March 4, 2024, an engaging debate unfolded at the College of Pharmacy, Gulf Medical University (GMU), where PharmD students in their final year of academic pharmacy rotation sparked a vital conversation on the methodologies of academic assessment within healthcare education. The discussion, which welcomed participation from nursing and medicine students, centered around the effectiveness and implications of traditional letter grading systems versus pass/fail assessments in rotations.
The debate was part of an elective rotation designed to immerse pharmacy students in various teaching and learning environments, including lectures, simulation labs, clinical settings, and pharmaceutical sciences labs. This initiative also aims to involve students in reflecting on the PharmD curriculum design and the ongoing process of quality improvement, with a particular focus on the future of pharmacy education.
Participants in the debate highlighted the advantages and limitations of both assessment systems.
The debate reflects GMU’s commitment to forward-thinking and inclusive educational practices in an interprofessional environment, aiming to equip future healthcare professionals with the skills, knowledge, and adaptability they need to excel in a rapidly evolving field. As the discussion on assessment methodologies continues, GMU’s faculty and students are at the forefront, exploring innovative ways to enhance learning outcomes and prepare for the challenges of future pharmacy and healthcare education.