title: Web-based instruction on substance abuse and drug diversion.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To develop a pilot study to assess the effectiveness of a Web-based educational module on enhancing understanding of substance abuse and drug diversion, and to assess students' abilities and confidence in applying the information.
  
  
  METHODS
  A Web-based instructional module was presented to students enrolled in their second pre-professional year, and students were informed that it was part of a research study. Knowledge was tested using 10 pre- and post-module questions. Students were also presented with 5 survey questions assessing abilities related to the learning objectives.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The median percentage of correct responses increased from 60% (Interquartile range [IQR] 20%) for the pre-module questions to 90% (IQR = 10%) for the post-module questions. The median percent gain in knowledge was 20% (IQR = 20%) which was significant (p < 0.0001).
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Web-based instruction is an alternative method for engaging students in course content. We found that 59% of our pilot study group worked in a pharmacy. From the success of the pilot study, the module was implemented as an extra credit assignment in a required course to provide a foundation for developing professional responsibility.
authors.affiliation: Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacy Administration, Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, University of Sciences in Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
authors.forename: Jennifer
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Reinhold
authors.forename: Laura
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Pontiggia
authors.forename: Mark
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Angeles
authors.forename: Grace
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Earl
mesh_terms: D003194:Computer-Assisted Instruction / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards; D003625:Data Collection; D004512:Education, Pharmacy / Q000379:methods* / Q000639:trends; D004521:Educational Measurement; D020407:Internet; D010595:Pharmacists; D010865:Pilot Projects; D013339:Students, Pharmacy; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders