Development of an online pharmaceutical calculations learning module

At Monash University prior to 2004, no formal mechanism existed in later years of the pharmacy course to review or re-assess pharmaceutical calculations. Competency in the area at registration was a concern. A flexibly delivered online module was developed which contained tutorials, and practice and assessment questions in a multiple-choice format. The module was initially introduced into the pre-registration year, then subsequently into each undergraduate year level. Students needed to achieve a score of at least 80 in the assessment to pass the module. Preliminary evaluation showed the module was well accepted by students. Negative aspects mostly related to students perceiving some topics as irrelevant, computer difficulties and degree of difficulty of the questions. The assessment component of the module now forms part of the assessment within each year level. The module requires students to be responsible for their own learning and imparts the principle of life-long learning early in their pharmacy career.