20 - Learning Preferences and Outcomes Across Generational Cohorts in Pharmacy Continuing Education

Background: Generational Cohort Theory suggests that individuals who come of age during the same historical period share defining experiences, such as technological shifts, cultural changes, and economic events, that influence their values, attitudes, learning styles, and preferences for communication and engagement. For continuing education (CE), this raises questions about tailoring design for better engagement and outcomes. However, evidence of generational differences from such tailored approaches remains limited.

Objective: This study aims to determine whether generational differences exist in pharmacists’ learning preferences for CE and if differences have an impact on program outcomes.

Methods: Data were collected from participants from 56 live CE programs conducted between March 15 and May 3, 2025, including one live online video, 21 virtual live symposia, and 34 hybrid live symposia across various therapeutic areas. Pharmacist demographics, including self-identified generational cohort, baseline knowledge, and confidence, were assessed through a pretest survey. Post-activity, pharmacists answered questions on confidence, knowledge, planned practice changes, barriers to implementing changes, and preferences for CE deliverables. Data were analyzed by generational cohort and compared between groups.

Results: The analysis included responses from 16,294 pharmacists including self-identified Millennials (48.3%), Generation X (30.2%), Baby Boomers (16.4%), Generation Z (4.1%), and Silent (1.1%) generations. Learners’ first preference for CE formats included virtual live symposia (46.1%), in-person live symposia (26.0%), and live online videos (13.0%). Case studies (38.6%) were rated as the most valuable program element, with a 1-hour session length preferred by the majority (54.7%). Preferences were generally consistent across generational cohorts, showing no distinct differences. Ongoing analysis is exploring generational differences including changes in confidence, knowledge and competence gains, intent to change practice, and perceived barriers

Conclusions: Preliminary findings suggest generational tailoring of pharmacist CE activities may be unnecessary based on learner preferences. However, further analysis may show trends in program outcomes.