Healthcare students' experiences when integrating e-learning and flipped classroom instructional approaches

Br J Nurs. 2017 Jun 8;26(11):617-622. doi: 10.12968/bjon.2017.26.11.617.

Abstract

This article describes the experiences of undergraduate healthcare students taking a module adopting a 'flipped classroom' approach. Evidence suggests that flipped classroom as a pedagogical tool has the potential to enhance student learning and to improve healthcare practice. This innovative approach was implemented within a healthcare curriculum and in a module looking at public health delivered at the beginning of year two of a 3-year programme. The focus of the evaluation study was on the e-learning resources used in the module and the student experiences of these; with a specific aim to evaluate this element of the flipped classroom approach. A mixed-methods approach was adopted and data collected using questionnaires, which were distributed across a whole cohort, and a focus group involving ten participants. Statistical analysis of the data showed the positive student experience of engaging with e-learning. The thematic analysis identified two key themes; factors influencing a positive learning experience and the challenges when developing e-learning within a flipped classroom approach. The study provides guidance for further developments and improvements when developing e-learning as part of the flipped classroom approach.

Keywords: Education and training; Evaluation; Higher education institutions; Information technology; Students.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Attitude to Computers*
  • Computer-Assisted Instruction*
  • Curriculum*
  • Female
  • Focus Groups
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Problem-Based Learning / organization & administration*
  • Students, Nursing / psychology*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Teaching*
  • United Kingdom
  • Young Adult