Computer-Based Exercises to Supplement the Teaching of Stereochemical Aspects of Drug Action

The development of innovative strategies to teach key stereochemical concepts has been an ongoing, evolutionary process at our University. Initially, the ALCHEMY molecular modeling program was used to give demonstrations within the lecture hall setting. While successful, these demonstrations did not allow student active learning. Thus, a more interactive approach was sought. To this end, a tutorial manual composed of five self-paced, computer exercises was developed. These exercises also utilize the ALCHEMY molecular modeling program and have been used for the past two years. Students work in small groups and complete these exercises in Duquesne University’s School of Pharmacy Computer Laboratory under the supervision of a teaching assistant or the course instructor. The success of this method was assessed using student evaluations and examination questions. Overall, this teaching method has been well received and appears to increase the students’ understanding of stereochemical concepts as they relate to drug action.