Smoking cessation problem-based learning: Virtual experience

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Problem-based learning (PBL) is a student-centered teaching and learning methodology where students collaboratively address specific issues. Tobacco use is a major health issue globally. Health professions and students need to have knowledge and skills to facilitate smoking cessation. The objective of this study is to assess feasibility of PBL during a virtual attachment involving institutions from Malaysia and the USA. Methods: A 4-week smoking cessation virtual attachment was conducted for three third-year University of Pittsburgh, USA pharmacy students. Malaysian smoking cessation experts designed and facilitated a PBL smoking cessation module. It was split into two 2-hour sessions with 3 triggers; Trigger 1: ‘Chief Presentation’, Trigger 2: ‘History & Motivational Interview’, and Trigger 3: ‘Brief 5A’s Intervention’. Students received Trigger 1 a day earlier and discussed amongst themselves. In session 1, Triggers 1-3 were given sequentially and discussed after completing all tasks from each trigger. In session 2 one-week later, facilitators gave formative assessment and students provided reflection regarding the PBL session. Upon completing the four-week virtual attachment, students provided feedback and facilitators graded the students. Result and Discussion: A comprehensive and interactive PBL session was successfully conducted virtually. Based on the clinical practice guidelines of both countries, there were differences in terms of availability and use of cessation medications, but the general principles of smoking cessation consultation and interventions were similar. Students were able to discuss the case openly, putting forth ideas and questions in both sessions. All students provided positive feedbacks regarding the PBL. Conclusions: With the extensive development of online platforms connecting the world over, student virtual attachment and mobility programmes can be easily conducted with minimal cost. A suitable module embedding PBL can be designed and conducted to best suit the online platform and the intended students