Refreshing the D.pharmacyCurriculum, Teaching Methods, Assessment, and Student Aid: Education Regulations 2020 (ER-2020) and Curriculum Reforms.

Introduction to ER-2020

The National Education Policy (NEP) of the Government of India has emphasized the need for enhancing learning experiences through a holistic approach. In line with this vision, the Pharmacy Council of India(PCI), the apex body regulating pharmacy education, has introduced the ‘Education Regulations 2020’ (ER-2020) for the Diploma in Pharmacy (D.Pharm) program. These regulations reflect the evolving role of pharmacists as medicine experts within multidisciplinary healthcare teams.

Curriculum Restructuring

  • The ER-2020 is a result of comprehensive exercises that involved revisiting existing courses, evaluating healthcare stakeholders’ expectations, and seeking expert feedback.
  • The new curriculum’s structure is designed to align with current practice standards while accommodating upcoming changes. While maintaining a total of 21 courses, there is a shift from 12 theory courses to 11, and an increase in practical courses from 9 to 10.
  • Theoretical teaching hours are reduced from 850 to 825, while practical hours are extended from 750 to 800. Notably, three practical courses are introduced for the first time, along with 275 hours allocated for ‘Tutorial’ activities, fostering experiential and self-directed learning.

Innovations and Course Additions

The ER-2020 introduces groundbreaking changes, including ‘Pharmacotherapeutics‘ courses (theory and practical), refining students’ pharmaceutical care skills in both community and hospital settings. Additionally, ‘Social Pharmacy’ courses (theory and practical) impart insights into primary and preventive healthcare, showcasing the pharmacist’s potential role in these domains.

Curriculum Design Committee

A Committee of 16 experienced members from diverse domains was constituted to design the syllabus for individual theory and practical courses based on the ER-2020 framework. Syllabi were crafted meticulously to avoid redundancy, while incorporating scope, course objectives, and outcomes. These syllabi encourage active learning through assignments and field visits, enhancing critical thinking, literature search, interpretation, and communication skills. 

Competencies and Mapping

The ‘Competencies for Indian D.Pharm Holders,’ encompassing knowledge, skills, attitudes, and values essential for professional practice, were derived and mapped to individual courses. This interlacing of courses and competencies ensures comprehensive skill development, fostering a strong foundation for pharmacy professionals.

Administrative Considerations

Though credit calculations are unconventional, the curriculum’s equivalence to 80 credits simplifies administrative purposes. This ensures compatibility with conventional methodologies when needed.

Faculty Development

Acknowledging the new syllabus’s advanced and contemporary content, the Council plans an array of development initiatives like meetings, seminars, conferences, workshops, and webinars. These will empower faculty members to deliver the updated courses effectively.

Acknowledgments

The Pharmacy Council of India acknowledges the collaborative efforts of its members and stakeholders in shaping ER-2020, the curriculum, and syllabus. This comprehensive overhaul is expected to equip students with knowledge and skills aligned with current and future professional demands, ensuring their success in the dynamic field of pharmacy.