Pharmacy Fika

In this episode, we describe the performance evaluation processes mandated at our universities/colleges/schools — what works and what doesn't.  Too many purposes often lead to onerous processes that don't serve anyone well.    ______________________________ Resources Peppercorn S. 5 Questions Every Manager Needs to Ask Their Direct Reports .  Harvard Business Review, January 21, 2022. Kim J. 7 Way...

In this episode, we talk about our experiences working in high-functioning teams and how to find a team to produce scholarly works related to teaching and learning.  While teams of "convenience" are commonplace, finding collaborators outside your immediate circle, people with complementary skills and experiences, can really boost your creativity, productivity, and work satisfaction.   ____________...

In this episode, we discuss the value of generalists (aka utility infielders) - faculty with broad knowledge and range of skills - and why our students may be better served by generalists rather than specialists.  While academia (and clinical practice) prizes specialization, there are downsides. Narrowing our focus too much can limit creativity and hamper open-mindedness.  But anyone can be a util...

In this episode, we discuss our frustrations with various grading systems and how they can have harmful effects on students.  Grades are a powerful motivator but have become a poor substitute for what really matters.  There may be some alternative ways to assess student performance ... but we run out of time!  We need to come back to this discussion in a future episode.   Resources Want to learn m...

In healthcare, we try our best to coordinate patient handoffs and handovers to ensure smooth transitions.  But in higher education, it's frowned upon. Why?  We explore the potential benefits and risks of sharing student performance data between preceptors and educators in the same educational program (handoffs) and between educational programs (handovers).   Resources Want to learn more about hand...

Pharmacy Fika is a podcast for pharmacy educators by pharmacy educators.  Mission:  We want to create a positive, compassionate, and fun "place" where pharmacy educators gather to discuss teaching and learning, SoTL, and academic life.  We value excellence without perfectionism, practical actions, and community. Hosts: Jeff Cain, EdD, MS (@DrJeffCain) - University of Kentucky Kristin Janke, PhD (@...