Learning and education · 1 min read

With review in both formats, the flipped class did not have higher grades

Among 42 physical therapy students randomly assigned to one section or the other, average scores were similar. Students in the flipped class felt more confident.

How we make these readings

The study, in plain language

In a traditional class, instruction takes place in the classroom. In the flipped format for this course, students watched videos beforehand and used class time to answer questions and review. Forty-two physical therapy students were randomly assigned to one of the two sections, and both had short quizzes and opportunities to review material.

Average final scores were similar across formats. Within the exams, however, questions about reviewed topics were answered better than other questions. Students in the flipped class also reported greater satisfaction and confidence. There is a limitation: format, not review, was randomized, and the study involved one course and one instructor, without concealing which format students received.

The key idea

Among 42 students, grades did not differ between formats; reviewed questions were answered better, and the flipped group reported greater confidence.

Something to think about

When choosing how to study, how often do you give yourself a chance to explain what you learned again? In this 42-student course, the format did not appear to move grades, but it did affect how each group felt.

The original study

Dependence of learning outcomes in flipped and lecture classrooms on review questions: A randomized controlled trial and observational study

PLOS ONE. Published .

Study authors (2)

Jason Pitt, Bethany Huebner

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0279296

Source under CC BY 4.0. English adaptation and explanation by PaperFlow, with AI assistance. The text has been reorganized for a general audience; it is not the complete paper and does not imply endorsement by its authors.

One study alone does not represent a field's consensus. Educational content does not replace professional advice. Report a possible error.