Repurposing asynchronous video interview software for virtual pharmacy OSCEs during the COVID-19 pandemic

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic required pharmacy educators to seek creative and innovative ways of delivering learning outcomes in the virtual environment. Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCEs) have been particularly challenging to deliver online. Objective: To explore the use of asynchronous video interview software as a platform for virtual OSCEs in pharmacy education, and for conducting brief structured research interviews. Method: Fourth year Bachelor of Pharmacy students at an Australian university, were interviewed via asynchronous video interview software (Big Interview) about their perceptions of using the platform for virtual OSCEs. Results: 37 students (92.5%) used Big Interview to complete at least one summative OSCE case during a team-based simulation. Seven research interviews were recorded by six students. Positive comments focussed on facilitation of self-reflection and self-correction in patient questioning and counselling. Negative views concerned the lack of authenticity, including the robotic and artificial nature of interactions. Conclusion: Asynchronous video interview software for pharmacy OSCEs may assist formative learning and self-reflection, offering an adjunct to, but not replacement of, in-person communication