Using cooperative learning for a drug information assignment.
OBJECTIVE
To implement a cooperative learning activity to engage students in analyzing tertiary drug information resources in a literature evaluation course.


METHODS
The class was divided into 4 sections to form expert groups and each group researched a different set of references using the jigsaw technique. Each member of each expert group was reassigned to a jigsaw group so that each new group was composed of 4 students from 4 different expert groups. The jigsaw groups met to discuss search strategies and rate the usefulness of the references. In addition to group-based learning, teaching methods included students' writing an independent research paper to enhance their abilities to search and analyze drug information resources.


RESULTS
The assignment and final course grades improved after implementation of the activity. Students agreed that class discussions were a useful learning experience and 75% (77/102) said they would use the drug information references for other courses.


CONCLUSIONS
The jigsaw technique was successful in engaging students in cooperative learning to improve critical thinking skills regarding drug information.
Earl
Grace L
GL
Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, University of the Sciences in Philadelphia, PA, USA.
D003299:Cooperative Behavior; D003479:Curriculum; D004346:Drug Information Services; D004512:Education, Pharmacy; D004521:Educational Measurement; D006126:Group Processes; D006801:Humans; D007858:Learning; D016730:Program Development; D015397:Program Evaluation; D013339:Students, Pharmacy; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013850:Thinking; D013997:Time Factors