Application of question-based learning in the FA-0230 course of the Bachelor of Pharmacy at the Universidad de Costa Rica

Abstract

In the course of Fundamentals of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology (FA-0230) for the Bachelor’s Degree in Pharmacy offered at the Universidad de Costa Rica, necessary measures against COVID-19 were implemented in 2022 to ensure that classes were conducted in person. A question-based learning approach was chosen for the topic on monoclonal antibodies. The objective is to present the academic and student experience of this learning from March to July 2022, corresponding to the first semester of in-person classes after two years of virtual education. In the first class on this topic, each work team was asked to create a questionnaire about aspects they considered relevant to include in the exam evaluating this subject, upon completion of the lectures. Subsequently, each team submitted their questions to the instructor, who compiled a single document and shared it through the course's digital platform. At the end of the course, a questionnaire was administered to gather feedback on the teaching strategy used. In the academic evaluation, the average score was 80/100. Positive feedback from the students indicated a better understanding of the information they needed to comprehend for the exam, earlier study habits, and a sense of being active participants in their learning.