Combined Use of Online Tutorials and Hands-On Group Exercises in Bibliographic Instruction for Pharmacy Students

Abstract

This study describes the new blended learning methodology implemented in a Drug Literature Evaluation course for pharmacy students that involves combined use of online tutorials and in-class group exercises. Assignment grades earned by 909 students enrolled in the course before and after the new methods were implemented (2008–2010) were studied to measure student performance. Course evaluations were analyzed in order to ascertain students’ perceptions. The hybrid approach used to deliver the course content allowed students to perform at the same level as traditional didactic teaching. Students’ evaluations reported a positive educational experience and favorable perceptions of the new course design.

KEYWORDS:

• Active learning
• blended learning
• library instruction
• medical librarians
• online tutorials
• pharmacy students

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Mariana Lapidus

Mariana Lapidus, MSLIS ([email protected]) is Reference and Instruction Librarian, Henrietta DeBenedictis Library, Massachusetts College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, 179 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115.

Sarah K. McCord

Sarah K. McCord, MLIS, AHIP ([email protected]) is Head of Reference and Instructional Services, Henrietta DeBenedictis Library, Massachusetts College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, 179 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115.

William W. McCloskey

William W. McCloskey, PharmD, RPh ([email protected]) is Professor of Pharmacy Practice, Massachusetts College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, 179 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115.

Maria D. Kostka-Rokosz

Maria D. Kostka-Rokosz, PharmD, RPh ([email protected]) is Associate Professor of Pharmacy Practice, Massachusetts College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, 179 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115.