Online Learning Efficacy Research Database

Objective: To describe and evaluate the transition of a pharmacy residency and fellowship (PRF) elective course to a hybrid online platform. Innovation: In 2016, the 1-credit hour PRF elective was transitioned from a live, synchronous course to a hybrid online platform. Over the course of the semester, students completed eight modules along with assignments that pertained to a different component of PRF. Course grades and evaluations, as well as PRF placement rates, were compared between 2015 (live, synchronous course) and 2016 (hybrid online course). There were no differences in overall course grades or student evaluations of individual relevant course objectives between the two course formats. However, more students rated the course as excellent during the 2015 live, synchronous course. Placement rates were similar between students who took the course in 2015 and 2016. Critical Analysis: Following the transition of a PRF elective to a hybrid online platform, course grades, evaluation of individual relevant course objectives, and PRF placement rates remained similar to previous years. Creative educational venues can help meet the student demand while simultaneously allowing faculty to manage their time. However, instructors should balance this with desire of students to have more face-to-face in class time. 
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Objectives
The objective of this study was to evaluate student pharmacist experience and academic performance in the first offering of a drug information and literature evaluation course utilizing a blended learning approach.

Methods
An anonymous online survey, course grades, and evaluations were compared with the traditional offering (composed of live lectures and occasional recitations).

Results
The blended learning strategy doubled the time spent in recitation; 96% of students reported them as “helpful.” Students preferred viewing lectures online and viewed most lectures on time. Students reported that online lectures in this course provided an equal educational value compared with “live” lectures. Compared to the traditional course, there was no difference in examination scores or course evaluations. Course grades and student perception of achieving course objectives were improved with the blended learning course.

Implications
The blended learning strategy allowed for an increase in active learning sessions, higher course grades, and improvement in components of the course evaluations. 
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