Virtual Self-learning Modules Integrating Pharmacology Concepts into a Geriatric Elective.

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Geriatric Pharmacology
• Virtual Learning

Background:

• Clinical rotations present challenges in integrating foundational sciences.
• Medical learners often struggle to revisit core scientific concepts during clerkships.
• Effective virtual strategies are needed to bridge this gap.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate virtual self-learning modules (SLMs) for geriatric pharmacology.
• To assess the impact of SLMs on learner understanding, confidence, and attitudes.
• To determine the feasibility of using SLMs for integrating foundational sciences in clerkships.

Main Methods:

• Developed virtual geriatric pharmacology SLMs for a fourth-year elective.
• Modules incorporated cases, interactive exercises, resources, feedback, and quizzes.
• Administered pre- and post-elective quizzes and surveys to evaluate effectiveness.

Main Results:

• Learners demonstrated improved performance on post-elective assessments.
• Participants valued the integration and reinforcement of pharmacology during the clerkship.
• SLMs were reported to enhance understanding, confidence, and attitudes toward geriatric pharmacology.

Conclusions:

• Virtual geriatric pharmacology SLMs are an effective method for integrating foundational sciences.
• SLMs can improve learner performance, understanding, and confidence.
• This virtual approach can be adapted to teach other foundational sciences during medical clerkships.