Dr. Renee Hayslett
Associate Professor of Pharmaceutical Sciences
Co-Director of the Vivarium
Education
- B.A., Spanish, Spelman College
- Ph.D., Pharmacology, Howard University
Research Background and Interests
Dr. Hayslett’s research focuses on the pharmacology and behavioral effects of drugs in central nervous system disorders. She is particularly interested in studying receptor systems and signal transduction pathways involved in mediating mood-related behaviors and cognition.
Courses
- PHA 329 Pharmacy Fundamentals
- PHA 334 Foundations of Pharmacology and Immunology
- PHA 547 Nervous System Pharmacotherapy
- PHA 572 Spanish for Pharmacists
- PHA 742 Foundations in Pharmaceutical Sciences
- PHA 798 Non-Thesis Project
Teaching Philosophy
I enjoy learning and I enjoy being a student. I like exploring new ideas and learning concepts and facts. I find that teaching is a way for me to share and reinforce my knowledge of a particular subject. Overall, my teaching objectives are to foster attitudes that embrace life-long learning, assist in the development of analytical thinking skills, and help students to become effective problem solvers. I believe that these qualities will contribute to the development of productive pharmacists and researchers who are committed to improving human health.
As a teacher in the basic sciences, I believe that specific information or facts have to be obtained in order for it to be applied and integrated. I think a lecture-based format can appropriately address scientific concepts. Furthermore, the incorporation of active learning exercises into a traditional format can supplement lectures and improve comprehension of the material. Once the foundation has been laid, the use of case studies or problem-based learning activities can stimulate critical thinking and enhance learning. Engaging students during lectures promotes student ownership of their education and builds confidence in their knowledge and decision-making process.
The art of teaching is an ongoing process. Throughout the course I teach in, I seek constructive feedback from students and have an open-door policy for questions and comments. A formal assessment of my teaching is completed through student and peer evaluations. Based on this feedback, as well as a self-assessment of teaching, I am able to gauge the degree of success of my role in the course. In the best interest of the students and me, it is imperative to improve upon my delivery of the material from lecture to lecture and year to year. It is also vital to present current information regarding the use of drugs as well as share results from basic and clinical studies and discuss the impact of these findings on pharmacy and healthcare. I feel that it is important to utilize evidence-based methods of teaching while also seeking additional approaches that can promote student learning. As an educator, I am committed to constantly developing my skills.
Pharmacists are deservedly recognized as integral members of the healthcare team. Basic science research is also vital for improving therapeutic approaches. We cannot know enough or be curious enough about curing diseases and improving the quality of life of individuals and their families who are affected by illness. It brings me immense satisfaction to know that I may play a role in helping someone by ensuring that our students are prepared for the challenge.
Selected Publications
- PubMed
- Kandi, P and Hayslett, RL. Nicotine and 17?-estradiol produce antidepressant-like effects in female ovariectomized rats, Brain Research Bulletin, 2011; 84:224-228.
- Hayslett, RL and Redding, M. Coordinating a Spanish for Pharmacists course as non-fluent Spanish speakers. Let’s Think About It! Summer 2011; Vol.12, Issue 4.
- Hayslett, RL and Tizabi, Y. Effects of donepezil, nicotine and haloperidol on the central serotonergic system in mice: Implications for Tourette syndrome. Pharmacology, Biochemistry and Behavior 2005; 81(4):879-886.