Assessment of the effect of communication skills training on communication apprehension in first year pharmacy students – A two-year study

Abstract

IntroductionThe purpose of the study is to assess the impact of a communication skills course on communication apprehension (CA) in two cohorts of first-year (P1), first quarter pharmacy students over a consecutive two-year span. MethodsThe personal report of CA (PCRA-24) was administered at the beginning and completion (pre-post) of a skills-centered communication course to two cohorts of P1, first quarter pharmacy students over a consecutive two-year period. The delivery of the communications course was redesigned during this timeframe based on post-course analysis data and student feedback to incorporate opportunities for students to engage in active learning activities throughout the course. ResultsResults of the study revealed a statistically significant reduction of total CA in both cohorts. Cohort 1 had significant reduction of CA in all four measured domains: group discussion meetings, interpersonal communication, and public speaking. Cohort 2 had significant reduction in two of the domains (group and meeting). ConclusionsOverall, this study indicated that the format of this P1, first quarter communications course had a positive effect on student CA. In addition to the data collected for this research project, post-course evaluations and student comments indicated an overall positive reaction to the design and delivery of the course material, active learning assignments, and assessments.