Visualization of feelings of growth and satisfaction in students using qualitative analysis by coding and quantitative analysis, and Reflection in class improvement

Case and prescription analyses using a problem-based learning tutorial by fifth-year pharmaceutical science students

Abstract

Fifth-year students of the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences at our university perform case analysis and prescription analysis using a problem-based learning (PBL) tutorial in tandem with practical training. In the present study, responses to a post-PBL student survey were analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively by coding to assess feelings of growth and satisfaction among students. The students demonstrated various competencies and felt their abilities had improved. Specifically, the answers to the open-ended questions suggested that the students had discussions based on their experience in practical training, were influenced by group dynamics, and obtained clinically useful knowledge and learned the process of consideration for patient-oriented healthcare. Moreover, customer satisfaction analysis was performed to determine how to improve classes. The results showed that improving students’ perception that the classes are useful for enhancing their ability as future pharmacists elevates their level of satisfaction with the classes. This study provided essential information for effective use of the plan-do-check-act (PDCA) cycle at the class level through quantitative and qualitative analyses.