Actual vs. Perceived Competency Development-How Can Virtual Patients Impact Pharmacist Pre-Registration Training?

Thompson, Jessica; White, Simon; Chapman, Stephen

Abstract

Virtual patients are an active learning pedagogical tool that simulate clinical scenarios. There is an established disparity in pre-registration examination pass rates depending on whether individuals complete their training in a community or hospital pharmacy. This study aimed to evaluate virtual patient (VP) and non-interactive (NI) case studies, concerning knowledge, skill and confidence development of pre-registration pharmacist trainees. A quasi-experimental evaluation was conducted. Pre-registration pharmacists completed three VP or NI case studies. Each case study was associated with a pre-and post-knowledge quiz. Pre-registration trainees were invited to complete a questionnaire consisting of Likert ranking statements and open-ended questions on the case study features, usability and individual development. Both learning tools significantly improved trainees' knowledge on the topic areas (except for the NI group in case study 3). Although no significant differences in knowledge improvement were identified between the learning tools, trainees who used the VP reported the development of a wider knowledge base and skill set, an increase in confidence for practice and an opportunity to apply their learning. The sector in which pre-registration pharmacists were completing their training (community or hospital) had a significant impact on knowledge improvement in the three case studies. Future research evaluating VPs with pre-registration and qualified pharmacists should be conducted to explore their benefits and establish their effectiveness as learning tools.

Citation

Thompson, J., White, S., & Chapman, S. (2020). Actual vs. Perceived Competency Development-How Can Virtual Patients Impact Pharmacist Pre-Registration Training?. Pharmacy, 8(3), Article 138. https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmacy8030138

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Jul 31, 2020
• Online Publication Date: Aug 5, 2020
• Publication Date: Aug 5, 2020
• Journal: Pharmacy
• Publisher: MDPI
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 8
• Issue: 3
• Article Number: 138
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmacy8030138
• Keywords: computer-based education, high fidelity simulation training, online learning, pharmacy education, pharmacy practice, virtual patients
• Public URL: https://keele-repository.worktribe.com/output/417758
• Publisher URL: https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmacy8030138