A comparison of in-person vs. asynchronous learning with self-care patient cases

Abstract

Background and purpose: To evaluate the effectiveness of a live laboratory setting compared to an asynchronous session in a crossover teaching design on knowledge and confidence in self-care review topics.

Educational activity and setting: Pharmacy students (n = 88) participated in a crossover designed laboratory session where they either attended a live, active-learning laboratory session on self-care review topics, followed by a virtual, asynchronous self-care simulation or vice versa. Sessions were held one week apart. Pre- and post-assessments were administered that contained knowledge and confidence questions as well as student perceptions on the teaching modalities.

Findings: Of the 88 students who participated in the study, 67 (76.1%) were included in the study findings. Post-assessment knowledge and confidence significantly increased after both the live, active-learning session and the asynchronous simulation. The majority of students (85%) indicated that they preferred the in-person activity.

Summary: Students preferred the live, active-learning laboratory for reviewing self-care concepts. However, knowledge and confidence improved using either teaching modality, therefore, in institutions where resources are limited, the virtual, asynchronous activity may be useful especially if facilitators and/or budget are limited.

Keywords: Active-learning; In-person; Over-the-counter; Self-care; Virtual.