Abstract

Background:
Dispensing medications to patients requires adoption of structured processes, logical thinking skills and patient counselling techniques. Pharmacy students often lack opportunities to practice dispensing medications prior to their graduation.

Project Objectives:
In this project, we developed a CUHK version of a virtual pharmacy (MyDispense) currently used in overseas institutions. Our goal was to develop interactive dispensing exercises reflective of actual prescriptions, demonstrate vertical integration of knowledge learned across courses, internationalize the students’ learning and allow more class time for case discussions.

Strategies:
Thirty interactive exercises were developed and incorporated into MyDispense CUHK. Of these exercises, 25 basic prescriptions were designed for second year students and 5 more advanced prescriptions were developed for third year students. Students could access the platform through blackboard or through the project website.

Benefits:
The use of virtual eLearning platforms provides additional opportunities for students to practice the application of knowledge learned and practical issues in a simulated work environment. The immediate feedback provided allows students to identify the areas they missed and reinforces learning. Teachers are able to track the performance of students and better understand the weak areas of students.