When e-learning replaces the classroom: Lessons learned during the development process of an online biotechnology course

Aim: To share our experience with transferring an introductory Pharmaceutical Biotechnology course from a classroom setting to an interactive online learning environment. Method: An existing biotechnology course (Advanced Bachelor) was transferred to an online format to facilitate flexibility of studying, in addition to offering the course to professional pharmacists as a continuous education option. Course design is structured around the development trajectory for successful registration of a novel biosimilar, and introduces students to product definition, manufacturing, processing, quality/safety and registration requirements. The online environment (ElevateHealth) accommodates asynchronous interaction, a 24/7 log-in option, a clear overview of deadlines, progress and remaining activities and learning activities that can be completed sequentially or in parallel. We used different learning tools to accommodate different learning preferences: text reading, short web lectures, (multiple choice) questions, statements, discussion groups, wikis, polls, etc. Results: The e-course was evaluated by 20+ regular pharmacy students that were asked to indicate what they 'liked about the course' and 'what could be improved'. Students very much appreciated the interactive learning, the diversity of learning tools, and the timing flexibility. They suggested creating smaller groups for some assignments and a lowering of study load. Discussion: For an online course to be successful, it is important to keep learning activities short with clear objectives, explicit instructions and deadlines. Regular and frequent online feedback from course tutors on student performance is necessary to maintain motivation and active course participation.