E-learning in Pharmacy Education

A special issue of Pharmacy (ISSN 2226-4787). This special issue belongs to the section "Pharmacy Education and Student/Practitioner Training".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 December 2021) | Viewed by 24982

Special Issue Editor


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Guest Editor
Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
Interests: pharmacy education; curriculum development

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The traditional learning methodology involving face-to-face instruction has evolved alongside the development of the Internet to e-learning. E-learning suits needs-based pharmacy education (and education for other health care professions) well in its continuous evolution, bringing about the challenge of training by active learning methodologies and continued experiences in scenarios of diversified practices. 

As e-learning becomes a common feature of pharmacy education, the need to study its effectiveness increases. Individual e-learning programs should be evaluated, not to answer the question of whether e-learning works in pharmacy (we already know that), but to determine whether the program itself is effective. Improvements in knowledge, skills, and attitudes are essential parts. We must not forget that the final goal is to improve practice, and research should be directed to address this. There are a few studies on e-learning’s effectiveness for structural and organizational change or patient benefit. In addition, evaluation of e-learning technology is necessary. 

We invite you to share your experiences in a concrete and practical way that aims to support pharmacists, pharmacy students, and pharmacy educators and decision-makers worldwide. 

Prof. Dr. Antonio Sánchez Pozo
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

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Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 1800 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • pharmacy education
  • curriculum professional development
  • e-learning
  • program evaluation

Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

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14 pages, 252 KiB  
Article
Pharmacy Students’ Perceptions and Attitudes towards Online Education during COVID-19 Lockdown in Saudi Arabia
by Saleh Alghamdi and Majid Ali
Pharmacy 2021, 9(4), 169; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/pharmacy9040169 - 14 Oct 2021
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3012
Abstract
In March 2020, a national lockdown in Saudi Arabia due to the pandemic forced all educational institutions to complete their academic year via online education. This study aims to explore pharmacy students’ perceptions and assess their attitude towards online education during the lockdown. [...] Read more.
In March 2020, a national lockdown in Saudi Arabia due to the pandemic forced all educational institutions to complete their academic year via online education. This study aims to explore pharmacy students’ perceptions and assess their attitude towards online education during the lockdown. A cross-sectional self-administered survey was designed to collect responses of pharmacy students (from one college of pharmacy in Saudi Arabia) from December 2020 through January 2021. A total of 241 students completed the survey. Students’ responses indicated that they had easy access to the technology, online skills, motivation and overall favorable acceptance for online learning and examinations. There was a significant difference in the mean scores between the students from different years of study (p = 0.013) related to technology access, and the male students were in significantly more favor of online examinations than female students (p = 0.009). The majority of the students indicated that the lockdown had no or negative impact on their learning and training. Students have general acceptance for online education delivery due to more technology access and online skills. More research should explore the factors affecting and the extent of the impact of online education on student learning and training. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue E-learning in Pharmacy Education)
11 pages, 261 KiB  
Article
Pharmacogenetics in Pharmaceutical Care—Piloting an Application-Oriented Blended Learning Concept
by Céline K. Stäuble, Chiara Jeiziner, Kurt E. Hersberger, Henriette E. Meyer zu Schwabedissen and Markus L. Lampert
Pharmacy 2021, 9(3), 152; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/pharmacy9030152 - 06 Sep 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2897
Abstract
To enable application-oriented training of Swiss pharmacists on pharmacogenetic (PGx) testing, an advanced, digital training program was conceptualized based on the Miller’s Pyramid framework, using a blended learning approach. The PGx advanced training program included an asynchronous self-study online module, synchronous virtual classroom [...] Read more.
To enable application-oriented training of Swiss pharmacists on pharmacogenetic (PGx) testing, an advanced, digital training program was conceptualized based on the Miller’s Pyramid framework, using a blended learning approach. The PGx advanced training program included an asynchronous self-study online module, synchronous virtual classroom sessions with lectures and workshops, and a follow-up case study for in-depth applied learning including the analysis of the participants’ PGx profile. The evaluation of the training program consisted of (a) an assessment of the participants’ development of knowledge, competencies and attitudes towards PGx testing in the pharmacy setting; (b) a satisfaction survey including; (c) questions about their future plans for implementing a PGx service. Twenty-one pharmacists participated in this pilot program. The evaluation showed: (a) a significant improvement of their PGx knowledge (mean score in the knowledge test 75.3% before to 90.3% after training completion) and a significant increase of their self-perceived competencies in applying PGx counselling; (b) a high level of satisfaction with the training program content and the format (at least 79% expressed high/very high agreement with the statements in the questionnaire); (c) a mixed view on whether participants will implement PGx testing as a pharmacy service (indecisive 8; agreed/completely agreed to implement 7/1; disagreed 3 (n = 19)). We consider ongoing education as an important driver for the implementation of PGx in pharmacy practice. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue E-learning in Pharmacy Education)
9 pages, 511 KiB  
Article
Use of Face-to-Face Assessment Methods in E-Learning—An Example of an Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) Test
by Kristiina Sepp and Daisy Volmer
Pharmacy 2021, 9(3), 144; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/pharmacy9030144 - 20 Aug 2021
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3526
Abstract
The spread of COVID-19 and social-distancing rules have increased the need for alternative learning environments with a focus on e-learning platforms. The objective of this study was to assess whether and to what extent the transition from traditional learning and assessment environment to [...] Read more.
The spread of COVID-19 and social-distancing rules have increased the need for alternative learning environments with a focus on e-learning platforms. The objective of this study was to assess whether and to what extent the transition from traditional learning and assessment environment to the e-setting impacts the knowledge and skills acquired by students and their satisfaction with new e-solutions of taking the OSCE test. The study compared the results of three face-to-face (2018–2019) and one electronically conducted (2021) OSCE tests, as well as students’ feedback on the content and organization of the tests. For data analysis the one-way ANOVA test and post hoc multiple comparisons were used. The results demonstrated the feasibility and effectiveness of and students’ satisfaction with OSCE tests in the Zoom environment. However, more focus on communication techniques is required in a remote communication environment to better cover all patient health-related and drug communication aspects. There were identified differences between undergraduate students and practicing assistant pharmacists in assessing patients’ health problems and providing corresponding counseling. This result points to the need to implement the continuous development of patient-centered counseling techniques in the lifelong learning of pharmacists and the need to use innovative digital solutions, if applicable. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue E-learning in Pharmacy Education)
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8 pages, 228 KiB  
Article
Lockdown, Emotional Intelligence, Academic Engagement and Burnout in Pharmacy Students during the Quarantine
by Jorge Moreno-Fernandez, Julio J. Ochoa, Inmaculada Lopez-Aliaga, Maria Jose M. Alferez, Manuel Gomez-Guzman, Sagrario Lopez-Ortega and Javier Diaz-Castro
Pharmacy 2020, 8(4), 194; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/pharmacy8040194 - 22 Oct 2020
Cited by 31 | Viewed by 8827
Abstract
The recent appearance and rapid spread of the new SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus meant taking unprecedented measures to control the pandemic, which in Spain forced a state of alarm and a very strict confinement, leading the university system to become virtual online teaching. Taking into [...] Read more.
The recent appearance and rapid spread of the new SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus meant taking unprecedented measures to control the pandemic, which in Spain forced a state of alarm and a very strict confinement, leading the university system to become virtual online teaching. Taking into account the emotional deficiencies originated during the pandemic, among the most powerful tools to achieve engagement along with the identification, control and management of emotions is emotional intelligence (EI). The present study aims to establish the effect of the current confinement on the teaching-learning process and academic performance and the impact of the application of EI on university students. In total, 47 volunteers of the second course of the Degree in Pharmacy of the University of Granada (Spain) took part in this experience. Two temporary periods were established: at the beginning of the confinement period and after teaching several concepts of emotional intelligence online for two months. The Maslach Burnout Inventory-Student Survey Inventory (MBI-SS) and the Spanish version of Utrech Work Engagement Scale-Students (UWES-S) were used to evaluate the intervention. In total, 63.5% of the students presented academic burnout during the confinement before the intervention. After the EI workshops and seminars, only 31.1% presented academic burnout. Before the intervention with the emotional intelligence workshops, 44.6% experienced exhaustion, 41.7% cynicism and 60.3% felt it was ineffective in their academic performance. After the emotional intelligence workshops and seminars, 29.1% experienced exhaustion, 30.1% cynicism and 28.8% felt it was ineffective. The scores achieved after the study of EI in physiology classes led to better levels in all the variables studied. Students managed their adaptive processes more adequately and regulated their emotions better, as they felt less academic burnout and more engaged in their academic activities at the end of the study of EI through physiology. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue E-learning in Pharmacy Education)

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16 pages, 4086 KiB  
Project Report
Online and Blended Learning Courses for Healthcare Professionals and Policymakers on Patients’ Perspectives on Medicine: A Project Report
by Ramune Jacobsen, Anna Birna Almarsdóttir, Lourdes Cantarero-Arevalo, Anne Gerd Granås, Johanne M. Hansen, Martin C. Henman, Solveig N. Jacobsen, Susanne Kaae, Lotte S. Nørgaard, Katja Taxis and Sofia K. Sporrong
Pharmacy 2022, 10(2), 39; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/pharmacy10020039 - 16 Mar 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2601
Abstract
In order for healthcare professionals to better engage with patients, they need to understand and integrate the perspectives of patients into their daily work. In this project, we developed two courses for healthcare professionals on patients’ perspectives on medicine. One course was an [...] Read more.
In order for healthcare professionals to better engage with patients, they need to understand and integrate the perspectives of patients into their daily work. In this project, we developed two courses for healthcare professionals on patients’ perspectives on medicine. One course was an online course that introduced the patients’ perspectives on medicine and explained its importance for healthcare and health policy. The second course was a blended learning course, consisting of online modules and face-to-face webinars, which specified how to explore patients’ perspectives in qualitative interviews, and how to develop implementation plans. Patients participated in the development, execution, and evaluation of both courses. Overall, more than 2000 healthcare professionals enrolled in the first course and, in just over a year, 191 participants completed the online course; 57 healthcare professionals registered in the second blended learning course and six participants completed both components of the course. The relevance of knowledge gained was positively evaluated. Participants especially appreciated the participation of patients. Based on the feedback, the second blended learning course was adapted to run online and both courses continue to be freely available to all interested healthcare professionals on the Coursera platform. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue E-learning in Pharmacy Education)
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16 pages, 443 KiB  
Protocol
Protocol for the Optimizing Naloxone Dispensing in Pharmacies (ONDP) Online Continuing Education Program: A Randomized Controlled Trial
by Ashley Cid, Alec Patten, Michael Beazely, Kelly Grindrod, Jennifer Yessis and Feng Chang
Pharmacy 2022, 10(1), 24; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/pharmacy10010024 - 04 Feb 2022
Viewed by 2583
Abstract
The number of opioid-related deaths in Canada has steadily increased since 2016 and the COVID-19 pandemic has worsened this trend. Naloxone has been pivotal for reducing opioid-related harms and death, and pharmacists play a crucial role in ensuring the supply of naloxone to [...] Read more.
The number of opioid-related deaths in Canada has steadily increased since 2016 and the COVID-19 pandemic has worsened this trend. Naloxone has been pivotal for reducing opioid-related harms and death, and pharmacists play a crucial role in ensuring the supply of naloxone to Canadians through community pharmacies. However, naloxone dispensing by pharmacists is not optimal; in fact, in Ontario, only 50% of pharmacists offer naloxone, despite national guidelines that pharmacists should offer naloxone to everyone with an opioid prescription. When asked why pharmacists do not proactively offer naloxone, recent research has identified that pharmacists need continuing education to boost confidence and knowledge on how to start conversations with patients. The study involves a delayed start, double-blind randomized controlled trial, for Canadian licensed pharmacists and pharmacy technicians. The goals of the program are to increase Canadian pharmacy professional’s knowledge, confidence, and motivation to proactively offer naloxone, as well as to decrease stigma associated with naloxone. The program incorporates behaviour change techniques from the Theoretical Domains Framework and the Theory of Planned Behaviour. The intervention program includes three modules that focus on improving pharmacists’ communication skills by teaching them how to proactively offer naloxone, while the control group will complete a reading assignment on the naloxone consensus guidelines. The program will involve a process and outcome evaluation in addition to a contribution analysis. This program is important for breaking down previously identified barriers and knowledge gaps for why pharmacists currently do not proactively offer naloxone. This study will provide important new information about what behaviour change techniques are successful in improving confidence and motivation in the pharmacy profession and in an online environment. Findings from this study can be used to produce a national naloxone education program that can also be implemented into current pharmacy school curriculum. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue E-learning in Pharmacy Education)
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