Design, implementation, and assessment of clinical debate as an active learning tool in two elective pharmacy courses: Immunizations and Pediatrics

ObjectiveThe purpose of this article is to describe the clinical debates implemented in two elective courses and to discuss the results of a quality improvement assessment of student attitudes regarding the debate.DesignStudents enrolled in the electives using the debate format were asked to complete a survey regarding their attitudes toward their achievement of the goals of the assignment (e.g., improvement in knowledge of the topic, self-confidence, and literature evaluation skills).AssessmentAt least 50% of the students surveyed responded positively (i.e., agree or strongly agree) to seven of the 13 objectives measured. Overall, 87% of the students responded positively to the primary outcome of improving knowledge of the topic.ConclusionOverall, the clinical debate was well received by the students surveyed. Due to the successful implementation of the clinical debate in our elective courses, this technique has been adopted by other courses at our institution.