Journey of a drug: teaching pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics

Background

Pharmacology is a challenging course for nursing students, especially when considering the pharmacologic principles of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics (PK/PD). Active learning strategies including the use of manipulatives aimed at increasing knowledge and engagement may improve learning outcomes in a pharmacology course.

Aim

The aim of this study was to determine if an interactive ‘Journey of a Drug’ (JoaD) activity using manipulatives to represent key components of PK and PD processes was more effective than textbook readings and asynchronous video lecture for teaching PK/PD.

Methods

The efficacy of this activity was evaluated using a pretest-posttest design to compare students’ scores on a PK/PD knowledge test, as well as student self-reported engagement and perceptions of the JoaD activity compared to asynchronous PK/PD video lecture.

Results

There were significant improvements in PK/PD knowledge, student engagement, and students’ perceptions of the JoaD activity compared to asynchronous video lecture.

Conclusions

These results suggest that the JoaD activity is an effective active learning intervention that improves knowledge of PK/PD principles and enhances student engagement.