Effectiveness and Utility of Flowcharts on Learning in a Classroom Setting: A Mixed-Methods Study

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Pharmacy Education
• Cardiovascular Therapeutics

Background:

• Graphical organizers like flowcharts can simplify complex information.
• The effectiveness of flowcharts as an in-class instructional tool requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effectiveness of flowcharts on student learning in a cardiovascular therapeutics course.
• To explore student experiences with using flowcharts as an instructional tool.

Main Methods:

• An explanatory sequential mixed-methods study was conducted with pharmacy students.
• Quantitative data collected via surveys and performance comparisons.
• Qualitative data gathered through focused group interviews.

Main Results:

• Flowcharts significantly improved student understanding (86%), material integration (89%), and overall knowledge (87%).
• Statistically significant improvements in student performance were observed in shock, arrhythmia, and acute coronary syndrome.
• Student interviews revealed flowcharts serve as retention aids, study tools, and decision-making frameworks.

Conclusions:

• Flowcharts offer an effective alternative for teaching complex subjects, promoting meaningful learning.
• The implementation of flowcharts is straightforward and applicable across diverse academic fields.