Pharmacy Students Perception of the Application of Learning Management System in Patient-oriented Pharmacy Education: University of Benin Experience

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate pharmacy students’ perception of the application of learning management system (LMS) in their education in a Doctor of Pharmacy program in Benin City. Method: In a special ICT class, 165 pharmacy students were introduced to LMS using an open source program, DoceboÓ after which a questionnaire with core questions in five domains, namely, sociodemographic data, access to computer and internet, problems in applying ICT facilities, perception of elearning and LMS was administered. Students’ responses to the questionnaire were analysed. Results: Although most students (84%) had access to internet, only 16.1% owned computers and majority (82.1%) use cybercafés for internet access. Frequent electric power failure, inadequate computer facilities, skilled personnel, and slow internet speed were identified by 64.8–82.5% of the students as problems in using computer facilities in the University. While willingness to pay was not considered a problem, 80.4% of the students were only willing to pay not more than US$ 7.96 per semester for internet access. Over 92% of them felt that LMS will make teaching and learning more exciting and effective when combined with the traditional teaching approach. Conclusion: The use of LMS will improve the teaching and learning of pharmacy students. Keywords: LMS, e-Learning, pharmacy students, ICT, teaching and learning