Learners' Perceptions on Virtual Simulation Using MyDispense in the Philippines

Abstract

A virtual simulation, MyDispense, developed by the Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences at Monash University, aims to give experience to learners to practice their learnings and skills without harm. The objective of the study is to determine the learners' level of perception on virtual simulation using MyDispense on participation, interaction, accessibility, flexibility, and adaptability. The research utilized mixed qualitative and quantitative method using purposive sampling technique among pharmacy students in the Philippines that applied MyDispense in their curriculum. An online survey through Google Forms was conducted among 373 respondents analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square for quantitative and Thematic Content Analysis (TCA) to determine the barriers, challenges, and recommendations when using MyDispense. Results showed that respondents were mostly female (78.9%), in their second year of college (55.90%), had internet speed of 3-5mbps (38.51%), and a College from the Southern Part of the Philippines (83.54%). High level of perceptions on MyDispense for virtual dispensing practice expressed in mean values of learner's participation (3.97), interaction (3.47), accessibility (3.53), flexibility (3.55), and adaptability (3.76) were revealed Mydispense as an essential tool for online simulation practice. Moreover, significant relationship (p<0.05) were found on participation & internet connectivity (0.000); accessibility & internet Connectivity (0.05); flexibility & institution (0.000); and adaptability & year level (0.030). Students had experienced various challenges in using MyDispense such as connectivity, gadgets compatibility, etc. but found ways to overcome them. The study concluded that MyDispense is a promising tool for reinforcing community and hospital pharmacy dispensing practice skills to students during their pharmacy education.