Training of Novice Researchers: A Study on the Outcomes and Benefits of Using the Problembased Laboratory Approach as an Alternative in the Pharmacy Curriculum

Abstract:

The objective of this research is to study the outcomes and benefits of using the Problem- Based Laboratory (PBLab) approach as an alternative to the traditionally-practised, supervisor-based research projects; in essence, the PBLab approach aims at finding out if the new approach can enhance or improve students’ research experiences, capabilities and leadership qualities when they conduct a research-oriented project in a group. A group of five students in the second year Diploma in Pharmacy programme was involved in the study and key data on the students’ performances, perceptions and satisfaction on the PBLab approach were collected by way of participant presentation, report writing, peer assessment, logbook evaluation and analysis of comments about the facilitator for final evaluation. The results of the research done are highly motivating and impressive; through the research, it was noted that the students responded favourably in all their feedback at the end of the project evaluation. In other words, student perception on the completion of the PBLab-based research project, peer learning and supervisor support was found to be positive and encouraging. It can firmly be said that the PBLab approach has a great potential to effectively guide a student’s research projects, especially if he is a novice researcher.

Key words: Problem-based laboratory, Research, Curriculum, Pharmacy, Facilitator.