Evaluating the use of virtual simulation training to support pharmacy students' competency development in conducting dispensing tasks

Background

The incorporation of digital health technologies in undergraduate teaching, such as the MyDispense program, provides a simulated opportunity to support students' competency development in dispensing tasks.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of using MyDispense, an online pharmacy simulation platform, on pharmacy students' self-reported reaction, learning, and accuracy in performing dispensing tasks.

Methodology

16 MyDispense cases simulating real-practice scenarios from prescription dispensing and verification to patient counseling were created for 55 professional year 1 pharmacy students as part of a professional skills course. A pre-post survey, nestled on Kirkpatrick's Model of Training Evaluation, was conducted on participants in the cohort to evaluate how the incorporation of MyDispense supported their development of dispensing tasks. A virtual formative assessment was also done using MyDispense to compare students' self-reported accuracy with faculty assessment scores to evaluate how MyDispense can support students' knowledge and metacognitive abilities in dispensing.

Results

The study showed an increase in students' confidence after using MyDispense, which led to an increase in the “learning” level of Kirkpatrick's Model. However, small changes were observed in other levels and sublevels of Kirkpatrick's Model. A notable discrepancy was observed between students' self-assessment scores and faculty assessment scores, with students overestimating their performances. Correlation analysis showed a weak relationship between students' self-assessment scores and the learning level of Kirkpatrick's Model.

Conclusion

This study highlights the positive impact of MyDispense on pharmacy students' confidence in dispensing. However, virtual simulation training may be best incorporated when students have exposure to experiential training placements, to maximize the learning outcomes and knowledge in dispensing processes.