Design and evaluation of a longitudinal faculty development program to advance scholarly writing among pharmacy practice faculty

Abstract

Objective. To describe the design and evaluation of a six-month longitudinal faculty development program designed to promote experience and skills in scholarly writing among pharmacy practice faculty. Methods. Writer’s Block uses a scheduled weekly writing time, peer support, and multiple account-ability measures to promote progress in manuscript writing. Faculty participation, satisfaction, and manuscript writing progress were used to evaluate the program’s success. Demographic data describing faculty participation in at least one of three cohorts of Writer’s Block were collected. Satisfaction was determined using an anonymous online survey. Writing progress was determined through reporting of weekly manuscript word counts and submission to a peer-reviewed journal. Results. Twelve assistant professors participated in one or more program cohorts to develop 20 manuscripts. Twelve (60%) manuscripts were submitted to a peer-reviewed journal. Of these, 10 (83%) have been published or accepted for publication, and one (8%) is undergoing peer review. The majority of participants agreed or strongly agreed that the program was helpful in starting and advancing manuscript writing. Specific program components meant to encourage writing accountability, such as monthly meetings, reporting word counts, and setting a weekly writing schedule, were highly valued. Conclusion. This program is the first described writing-focused faculty development program among pharmacy practice faculty. It successfully engaged pharmacy practice faculty members in the scholarly writing process, evidenced by participation in the program, participant satisfaction, and documented progress in manuscript development.