Using in silico process simulation tools in pharmacy education: Considerations for pivoting to online learning

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has required identification of pharmaceutical learning content and teaching methods which can support attainment of learning outcomes through online delivery. In silico, or computer based, process simulations are ideal tools for incorporation into online programme elements, however the scaffolding of learning with in silico tools requires a structured approach. A previously developed face-to-face workshop, which used in vitro and in silico dissolution testing, was pivoted to an online learning element using an in-house dissolution simulation programme. The learning element was developed through trial and evaluation of experiences of novice, competent and expert user(s). The delivery of the learning element was planned to address three stages of simulation learning according to the Belton model, with accompanying tools developed to aid scaffolding and assessment of competency milestones. The proposed delivery and assessment is suitable for both synchronous and asynchronous learning, and is suitable for incorporation into an Advanced Pharmaceutics module.

A Review of Modelling and Simulation Techniques for Life Support Systems and Queueing Systems

“…Following the research findings of [14], it was shown that both suggested delivery and assessment were adequate to asynchronous and synchronous learning frameworks.…”

Modelamientos in silico un mecanismo de enseñanza – aprendizaje en contexto virtual a estudiantes de biotecnología en pandemia COVID-19

“…Una iniciativa reciente llamada modelamientos in silico son parte de los laboratorios virtuales que permiten simular procesos biológicos experimentales haciendo uso de softwares, programas bioinformáticos y recursos computacionales (D'Arcy et al, 2020). Respecto a la utilidad de los modelamientos in silico en la educación superior durante el período de crisis por la pandemia COVID-19, fue una gran alternativa de enseñanza.…”