Tara Driscoll
Innovations Heading link
This Autumn, I implemented a number of innovative practices to accommodate online learning for pharmacy students. First, I eliminated binary pronouns in syllabus and class materials to be inclusive of all students and create an inclusive learning environment. Next, I redesigned the Blackboard course site to a modular design for easier navigation by students. Throughout the semester I used Blackboard Announcements to provide weekly To-Do reminders to students and to communicate to students when assessments had been graded.
I chose a hybrid class model composed of asynchronous, synchronous, and on-campus sessions to best provide an overview of contemporary pharmacy practice in a hospital setting. The course featured a combination of lectures, videos, large and small group discussions, independent assignments, and simulations. I migrated live, in-person lectures to a flipped classroom format to promote active learning. For example, students completed practice patient cases asynchronously before class to optimize time and to promote active discussion and learning during online synchronous class time.
During online synchronous sessions, I utilized Blackboard Collaborate for live Q&A with content experts and review of practice patients. I used Blackboard Collaborate’s presentation, polling, and hand-raising features during online, synchronous classes. Blackboard Collaborate Breakout Groups were used for small-group, active learning time integrated with faculty-led facilitation. I converted Blackboard Collaborate chat between students and faculty into FAQ and posted to Blackboard for students to review at a later time.
I migrated various in-person simulations to online synchronous sessions. This allowed students to conduct practice with patients, work in groups in breakout rooms, and review each case in real time with faculty. I utilized Examsoft, ExamID, and ExamMonitor to maintain the integrity of written final proficiency valuation and simulation final proficiency evaluation. I integrated Gradescope into the course to streamline weekly assessments, which enhanced efficiency and consistency in grading due to its AI-assisted technology. I used Gradescope’s feedback features to provide consistent feedback among students and among campuses (Chicago and Rockford) and the group work feature to ensure consistent scoring among group partners.
Lessons Learned Heading link
- Examsoft is good for multiple choice, fill in the blank, and T/F questions, however, Gradescope is better for simulation checklists
- Very clear instructions provided a week or more before class are helpful for student success
- Provide the student(s) with best practices for utilization of Gradescope
- Setting up rubrics in Gradescope may initially be time-consuming
Tara Driscoll
Clinical Assistant Professor
Department of Pharmacy