Active-learning assignments to integrate basic science and clinical course material.

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology Education
• Active Learning Strategies
• Musculoskeletal Disorders

Background:

• Effective pharmacotherapy education requires integrating diverse knowledge domains.
• Traditional methods may not fully prepare students for complex clinical decision-making.
• Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis present significant therapeutic challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate active-learning exercises for pharmacy students.
• To integrate pathophysiology, medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, and therapeutics for arthritis management.
• To enhance students' ability to formulate therapeutic recommendations for musculoskeletal disorders.

Main Methods:

• Two team-based case studies were designed for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
• Exercises incorporated content from multiple core pharmacy disciplines.
• Implemented within a required pharmacotherapy module.

Main Results:

• Students achieved high mean scores (9.1/10 for OA, 8.9/10 for RA) on case studies.
• Performance on case studies and examinations indicated successful learning.
• Student feedback rated the exercises as highly effective for learning.

Conclusions:

• Active learning successfully enhanced pharmacy students' knowledge for therapeutic recommendations.
• The integrated approach improved understanding of complex musculoskeletal conditions.
• This educational strategy is effective for preparing future pharmacists.