Enhancing pharmacology learning through simulation-based training versus traditional teaching: a quasi-experimental...

Traditional pharmacology tutorials may limit clinical reasoning development in managing life-threatening conditions. Although high-fidelity simulation offers realistic learning, little is known about its comparative effectiveness in teaching pharmacology to undergraduate students.

A quasi-experimental study compared traditional tutorials with simulation-based practical among second-year MBBS students. Identical lecture on Organo-Phosphorus Poisoning (OPP) preceded group-specific interventions. Knowledge assessed via MCQs at three time points: pre-test (post-lecture), immediate post-test, delayed post-test (4 weeks). A standardized 5-point Likert-scale questionnaire was used to assess student perceptions. Knowledge scores reported as median (IQR); perceptions (5-point Likert) as n (%). Wilcoxon rank-sum tests compared pre-test, immediate post-test, and 4-week post-test scores between simulation and tutorial groups to assess baseline comparability and intervention effects.

All 126 second-year MBBS students completed baseline assessment post-didactic lecture, with comparable pre-test scores between simulation and tutorial groups [median (IQR): 7 (5-9) vs. 6 (5-7)]. Post-intervention, both groups improved, but simulation group students achieved significantly higher immediate post-test scores and 4-weeks post-test score [r = 0.45]. Three months' post-intervention, blinded evaluation of a 5-mark exam question on the management of OPP showed higher pass percentage in the simulation group when compared with the traditional teaching group (73.5% vs. 68%; p < 0.05). Student feedback corroborated these results, with majority of simulation students agreeing that their sessions enhanced clinical understanding, engagement, and exam preparedness.

High-fidelity simulation performs noticeably better than traditional tutorials in knowledge acquisition, retention, and student perceptions of clinical relevance for critical cases management like OPP. Simulation fosters improved clinical reasoning, physiological understanding, and examination preparation among medical undergraduates. Pharmacology curricula should try to include simulation-based practicals to bridge theory-practice gaps in clinical pharmacology education.