Development of an online pharmaceutical calculations learning module

Authors

  • Phillip Bergen Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, 3052, Australia
  • Jenny McDowell Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, 3052, Australia
  • Rohan A. Elliott Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, 3052, Australia and Pharmacy Department, Austin Health, Studley Rd, Heidelberg 3084, Australia.
  • A/Prof Louis Roller Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, 3052, Australia
  • Dr. David Kong Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, 3052, Australia

Keywords:

calculations, learning module, pharmacy, online

Abstract

At Monash University prior to 2004, no formal mechanism existed in later years of the pharmacy course to review or re-assess pharmaceutical calculations. Competency in the area at registration was a concern. A flexibly delivered online module was developed which contained tutorials, and practice and assessment questions in a multiple-choice format. The module was initially introduced into the pre-registration year, then subsequently into each undergraduate year level. Students needed to achieve a score of at least 80% in the assessment to pass the module. Preliminary evaluation showed the module was well accepted by students. Negative aspects mostly related to students perceiving some topics as irrelevant, computer difficulties and degree of difficulty of the questions. The assessment component of the module now forms part of the assessment within each year level. The module requires students to be responsible for their own learning and imparts the principle of life-long learning early in their pharmacy career.

References

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Pappas, A., Cesnik, B., Roller, L., & Sorgetti, L. (1998). Pharmaceutical calculations: student evaluations of computer-assisted learning, Australian Journal of Hospital Pharmacy (Vol. 28, pp. 312-317).

Pappas, A., Stewart, K., Reed, B. L., Roller, L., Cesnik, B., Hoffman, J., et al. (1998). Evaluation of a computer- based bridging course by overseas-qualified pharmacists seeking Australian registration. American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education, 62 (3), 315-323.

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How to Cite

Bergen, P., McDowell, J., Elliott, R. A., Roller, A. L., & Kong, D. D. (2015). Development of an online pharmaceutical calculations learning module. Pharmacy Education, 11. Retrieved from https://pharmacyeducation.fip.org/pharmacyeducation/article/view/299

Issue

Section

Research Article