Effectiveness of Providing Video Podcasts to Pharmacy Students in a Self-Study Pharmaceutical Calculations Module

Abstract

Objective. To evaluate the effect of providing educational video podcasts to first-year pharmacy students enrolled in a self-taught pharmaceutical calculations module.

Methods. Six video podcasts were designed and posted online for pharmacy students to review prior to taking pharmaceutical calculations quizzes over the course of one year. The video podcasts demonstrated how to solve the most difficult problems on each of the six quizzes. Quiz performance was compared for the 2017-2018 year (no videos available) and the 2018-2019 year (videos available). Students provided feedback about the videos in a year-end survey.

Results. Overall quiz scores and passing rates improved during the 2018-2019 academic year. Enhanced student performance on three of the six quizzes was demonstrated. A majority of students strongly agreed that the videos were helpful.

Conclusion. Watching video podcasts was effective in improving pharmacy students’ performance on calculations quizzes. The students indicated that the podcasts were helpful in improving their math skills and facilitated their learning of the material.