Curriculum

The draft curriculum (still evolving):

1. Curriculum Aims, Goals, and Objectives

• Aim: To provide a comprehensive understanding of the pharmaceutical pathway from molecule to drug, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and ethical considerations in the drug development process.
• Goals: Equip learners with the knowledge, skills, and competencies necessary to effectively contribute to various stages of drug development.
• Objectives: Organized according to Bloom’s taxonomy, ranging from basic knowledge and understanding to the ability to apply, analyze, evaluate, and create within the context of the pharmaceutical pathway.

2. Content

• Detailed exploration of the main steps of the pharmaceutical pathway, key terms, and concepts.
• Overview of bioinformatics tools, databases, and their applications in drug development.
• Case studies highlighting the role of interdisciplinary collaboration and regulatory considerations.

3. Learning Experiences

• Interactive modules and simulations for applying bioinformatics tools in drug candidate research.
• Group projects and presentations to demonstrate the pathway of a drug from molecule to drug, incorporating interdisciplinary perspectives.
• Case study analyses to understand the complexities and challenges of drug development.

4. Teaching Strategies

• Use of diverse didactical approaches tailored to different learning objectives, such as lecture-based learning for knowledge acquisition, problem-based learning for application and analysis, blended learning with online video lectures, and project-based learning for evaluation and creation activities.
• Incorporation of guest lectures from industry professionals to provide real-world insights and reinforce the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration.

5. Assessment and Evaluation

• Quizzes and exams to assess knowledge and understanding of drug development steps and key terms.
• Practical assignments using bioinformatics tools to apply theoretical knowledge.
• Group projects evaluating the impact of regulatory and ethical considerations, and the effectiveness of interdisciplinary collaboration.

6. Resources

• Access to bioinformatics databases and software for practical exercises.
• Recommended readings and online resources covering each step of the drug development pathway, interdisciplinary collaboration, and ethical considerations.

7. Implementation Plan

• A structured timeline that progressively builds from foundational knowledge to more complex analysis and creative problem-solving.
• Allocation of modules or units corresponding to each domain of Bloom’s taxonomy, ensuring a logical progression that facilitates deep learning.

8. Feedback and Revision

• Regular formative feedback mechanisms through quizzes, instructor feedback on assignments, and peer reviews.
• Summative feedback at the end of the course through course evaluations and reflection essays to assess how well the learning objectives were met and identify areas for improvement.