Student-directed interactive animation for learning cytochrome P450-mediated drug metabolism

Abstract

Introduction: In this study, we introduced a student self-directed interactive animation tool created to enhance student understanding of cytochrome P450 (CYP450) mediated drug metabolism.

Methods: The online learning tool was constructed in HTML5 computer code. It was implemented over four years in a second year pharmacy degree course where CYP450 metabolism was taught. Assessment was by comparing test scores of students using the learning tool with a previous class that did not and through survey data from the student users.

Results: Use of the Cyber-CYP learning tool enhanced test performance on CYP450 metabolism-related questions in all years tested. Survey responses indicated that the learning tool was easy to use and facilitated student learning of CYP450-mediated drug metabolism.

Conclusions: This study has shown that complex and dynamic processes, such as CYP450 metabolism, can be more effectively communicated using student-centered, self-paced and interactive animations.

Keywords: Cytochrome P450; Interactive animation; Pharmacy education; Student learning.