An online workshop integrated into Immunology course to teach pharmacogenomics to the first-year pharmacy students

Abstract

Abstract Genetic basis of antibody structure is taught as a part of didactic course of Immunology to first-year pharmacy students. Therefore, we designed a three-hour workshop for P-1 students as a part of didactic Immunology course. Online workshops offer a rich multimedia learning experience, the interactive format includes guided learning videos, engaging discussion, assessment and comprehensive survey. Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) Standards 2016 include pharmacogenomics, it is the responsibility of pharmacy schools to prepare pharmacists entering clinical practice to effectively use genetic data in the delivery of precision medicine. However, in a 2010 survey the state of pharmacogenomics instruction at most pharmacy schools was reported as “poor” or “not at all adequate”. Pharmacogenomics is defined as the study of how genes affects a person’s response to drugs. We proposed a new method of instruction using online learning resources to drive better learning and awareness of pharmacogenomics at a very early stage in pharmacy education. 64 students were included in this study. Two YouTube videos 45 minutes each, i.e., one describing basic genetics and the other pharmacogenomics were posted on Moodle. A case-study model was used to bring home the basic concepts. A pre- and post-workshop google forum was posted to assess student’s learning. A Moodle-based chat forum was also incorporated to take students questions during the workshop. The data showed that most of the students were unware of the importance and relevance of pharmacogenomics and the workshop improved learning this significantly. Online learning tools like workshops were found to be student-friendly and a flexible format with no scheduled meeting times.