Evaluation of Cocurricular Learning and the Influence of Student Choice

Objective: The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the students' choice of activities and perception of a cocurricular program (CCP). Attitude and skill development and areas for program improvement were also assessed.

Methods: Data were evaluated from 2 sources: a student survey administered to all Doctor of Pharmacy students to determine student perceptions of the CCP and barriers to success and student activity reporting data from postexperience submissions to evaluate the CCP. Data were stratified by student demographics to identify trends. A comparison of data was conducted from both sources on the students' perception of learning value.

Results: Data for 405 students were available for analysis. The highest preference overall from students for hosts of activities were professional student organizations; the highest preference of location was online, asynchronous. The most meaningful benefits were learning information about a new subject (n = 258, 63.7%), ability to extend learning from the classroom to real life (n = 247, 61%), and networking opportunities (n = 218, 53.8%). The top barriers for completion of the program included scheduling challenges (n = 296, 73.1%), lack of time (n = 249, 61.5%), and lack of interest (n = 187, 46.2%). Subpopulations identified different benefits and barriers to completion.

Conclusion: Students have overall positive perceptions of the CCP and its value for skill development. Findings were applied to adjust the CCP at the institution, including a reduction in total hours required. The continuous evaluation of CCPs is important to optimize student learning and address curricular overload.