Use of an interactive home product display activity to facilitate active learning in a nonprescription medicines course

ObjectivesTo describe the implementation and impact on student learning of an interactive over-the-counter product and diagnostic device display in a nonprescription medicines course.MethodsSelf Care and Home Care (four credits) is a required course offered in the third professional year of the pharmacy curriculum. The course is structured according to disease state modules that include didactic lecture supplemented by case-based review sessions. Students are additionally required to participate in a one-hour home product display activity session as a culmination of the semester’s course work. During this activity, students rotate through product stations and complete a worksheet that requires the evaluation of product labeling to determine appropriate patient counseling. This interactive session is intended to better prepare students for providing patient counseling on the use of these products. A survey was developed and distributed for the Spring 2011 semester to assess the utility and impact of this activity on student learning.ResultsOn the post-activity survey, all categories of product-specific knowledge evaluated showed improvement from the pre-activity evaluation. Over 90% of students indicated that participation in this activity reinforced information covered in class, enhanced confidence in explaining the use of self-care products, and rated this activity as enjoyable and valuable. Fewer students (79.2%) reported participation in this activity provided new information.ConclusionsAn interactive, hands-on product display with readily available over-the-counter diagnostic devices and medications enhanced student learning and product knowledge. This activity can be implemented in other programs seeking to expand the promotion of nonprescription medicines education.