Impact of the educational technology use in undergraduate pharmacy teaching and learning – A systematic review

Abstract

Background: Educational technology has been increasingly used in recent years in pharmacy education. Its benefit on teaching and learning as well as its intention of use should be determined. Aims: To understand the technological approaches used in pharmacy education, and the impact of each approach on teaching and learning. Method: Four databases (PubMed, EMBASE, PsycINFO and ERIC) were searched to identify studies that described the use of technology in undergraduate pharmacy teaching and learning. Results: Thirty-four papers met the inclusion criteria. Majority of the studies (59%) used simulation technologies adopting a situated learning approach to complement or enhance teaching and learning. Most of the studies reported change in two or more concepts of the Kirkpatrick’s model, namely Reaction, Learning, and Behaviour, indicating improvement in learning experience, engagement, and performance. Conclusion: Educational technology with design features aligned with effective pedagogical theories seemed more likely to produce positive student outcomes.