A Pilot Study on the Use of Lecture Tools to Enhance the Teaching of Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics

Abstract

Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics are essential topics contained within the medical curriculum and are highly amenable to active-learning approaches. In this pilot study, we incorporated Lecture Tools, a cloud-based audience response system, into a lecture-based graduate course. Lecture Tools was used by both the instructors and the students during peer presentations. Advantages noted by the instructors include the versatility of the questions that can be presented and the ease with which student assessment can be conducted. Student surveys revealed that, overall, the use of Lecture Tools enhanced student attentiveness and engagement and facilitated student participation in questions and answers. Some disadvantages were observed and include the increased time required for lecture presentations. In summary, our results indicate that Lecture Tools can be effectively used in a medical education setting.