The role of online learning in pharmacy education: A nationwide survey of student pharmacists

Abstract

Introduction: Student pharmacists have significant exposure to online learning methods in their pre-pharmacy educational experiences. With decreasing resources and faculty shortages in pharmacy education, online delivery of course content is an efficient way to deliver pharmacy curricula while optimizing classroom time for active learning strategies. The purpose of this study was to assess student preferences associated with the utility of online learning methods such as online platforms, social media, and handheld devices.

Methods: An anonymous, voluntary 43-question online survey was delivered to students at colleges and schools of pharmacy in the United States (US). Frequency statistics were used to establish prevalence of student preferences.

Results: Overall, 1873 students from 29 schools of pharmacy completed the survey. Of these students, 30% preferred a blended course structure (with online and classroom components) throughout the curriculum, as compared to 47% of students who preferred live lectures exclusively. Approximately 57% of students found smart phones very or extremely valuable for their academic success. Approximately 61% of students reported using their smart phones and 37% reported using their tablets "always" or "often" during the past year for academic activities; however, only 31% of students found paper textbooks very or extremely valuable for their academic success, with approximately 26% using them "always" or "often."

Conclusions: US pharmacy students prefer a blend of traditional classroom and online learning methods. When updating and revising pharmacy curricula, colleges and schools of pharmacy should consider the inclusion of technology and online learning methodologies.

Keywords: Online learning; Pharmacy education; Social media.