Twelve tips for structuring classes in higher education: lessons learned from a biology premedical class

Abstract

This article was migrated. The article was marked as recommended. The efficacy of flipped classrooms on student learning is dependent on student motivation. We conducted a study on the impact of the flipped classroom on student performance and satisfaction among highly motivated students enrolled in a post-baccalaureate pre-medicine program for career-changers. Surprisingly, students in both traditional and flipped classrooms indicated lecture was the largest contributor to their learning. Additionally, students in the flipped classroom highlighted specific activities most useful to their engagement, comprehension, and exam performance. Thus for heterogeneous student populations in higher education, didactic lecture remains an integral component of learning. Based on our study and relevant literature, we suggest tips on how to effectively structure courses in higher education that are tailored to the learning needs and motivations of your specific student demographic.