The impact of preclass reading assignments on class performance

Objectives: To assess the value of mandatory preclass readings (PCRs) and preclass quizzes (PCQs) in a therapeutics course by correlating performance on PCQs to examination performance, and to evaluate student satisfaction of these assessments via a class survey. Methods: Students were assigned reading material before course lectures and given PCQs to assess for completion of the reading assignments. PCQ grades were averaged for each student and correlated with the student's own examination grade average using the Pearson's correlation coefficient. An 8-item survey instrument was developed to evaluate the students' perception of PCRs and PCQs. Results: A positive correlation was found between student PCQs and examination grades (r = 0.696; p < 0.001). The results of the survey showed student satisfaction. Conclusion: PCRs and PCQs were beneficial to students in a therapeutics course. A correlation was found between examination and quiz grades, and student satisfaction and comments of these assessments were positive. (C) 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.