Evaluation of computer-assisted self-instructional module for pharmacy continuing education

Area of Science:

• Pharmacy Education
• Continuing Professional Development
• Educational Technology

Background:

• Continuing education is crucial for pharmacists.
• Traditional methods may have limitations.
• Need for effective, accessible educational tools.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a computer-assisted self-instructional module for pharmacists.
• To assess knowledge improvement and retention after using the module.
• To gather pharmacists' feedback on this educational method.

Main Methods:

• Development of a CAI module using case studies on anticoagulant therapy.
• Prospective, nonrandomized study with 22 staff pharmacists.
• Pretest, posttest, and two-week delayed posttest design to measure knowledge.

Main Results:

• Mean scores significantly increased from pretest (55.8%) to immediate posttest (80.4%) (P<0.0001).
• Knowledge retention was significant, with a mean score of 74% at two weeks (P<0.001).
• Pharmacists generally provided favorable evaluations of the CAI module.

Conclusions:

• CAI modules are effective for improving pharmacists' knowledge.
• Significant knowledge retention is observed two weeks after CAI completion.
• Computer-assisted instruction is a viable and favorable method for pharmacy continuing education.