A PACT with pharmacy students

PACT (Peer Assisted Chemistry Tutorial) was implemented in the School of Pharmacy, University College Cork. The PACT scheme was adapted from the Peer Assisted Learning programme, better known as PAL, previously organised in the School of Science, Engineering and Food Science. The aim of PACT was to increase the students’ confidence in chemistry and to facilitate independent learning. The scheme involved the students working in small groups on pre-set problems. The tutors (member of academic staff) facilitated the session, provided guidance, initiated discussion and encouraged participation. However, the students were tasked with analysing the problems and ultimately suggesting a solution. Feedback was collected at the end of the process and the impact of the scheme was assessed. PACT proved to be a valuable “learning” experience for both students and tutors.