Improving learning using a layered learning model in the ambulatory care setting

Introduction: Layered learning models (LLMs) are becoming increasingly popular at various clinical practice sites and give rotational student pharmacists the opportunity to learn from pharmacist preceptors and resident mentors. The purpose of this article is to give additional insight into implementation of a LLM in an ambulatory care clinical practice setting. Given the expanding services of ambulatory care pharmacy practice sites, this is poised as an excellent opportunity to train both current and future pharmacists through utilization of LLM. Commentary: The LLM employed at our institution gives student pharmacists an opportunity to work within a unique team consisting of a pharmacist preceptor and a postgraduate year one and/ or postgraduate year two resident mentor if applicable. The LLM gives student pharmacists the opportunity to apply clinical knowledge into practice while refining soft skills that many student pharmacists might struggle with during pharmacy school or may not have the chance to develop prior to graduation. Embedding a resident within a LLM provides an ideal environment for preceptorship experience towards the student pharmacist while developing skills or attributes required to become an effective educator. The pharmacist preceptor in the LLM is able to teach the resident how to precept student pharmacists by tailoring their rotational experience to enhance learning. Implications: LLMs are continuing to grow in popularity in clinical practice settings. This article offers additional insight into how a LLM can improve the learning experience of everyone involved which includes student pharmacists, resident mentors, and pharmacist preceptors.