Introduction to Medical Statistics Software Using the Flipped Classroom: A Pilot Study

Teaching practical skills is of particular interest in the study of human medicine. With regard to medical statistics this means the use of statistical software, which may be effectively taught by a flipped classroom approach. As a pilot study, we designed and implemented an elective course on medical statistics that focused on hands-on data analysis in SAS Studio. Students independently prepared for class using materials such as pre-taped asynchronous lectures, and worked on exercises during synchronous class sessions. On course evaluations completed by n = 15 students out of 26, students rated their satisfaction with the course a mean of 1.3 (SD 0.6) on a scale where 1 = best and 6 = worst. Twelve (80%) indicated that they processed all materials provided, and 11 students (73%) rated the frequency of direct contact with the instructor as sufficient. Nearly all (14 out of 15) viewed the course as an adequate substitute for a full face-to-face course. Our results suggest that the proposed course design is well-accepted. The flipped classroom format offers high flexibility and can be implemented easily online. Our pilot data are encouraging regarding the aim of designing a prospective follow-up study which compares the flipped classroom approach to a teaching format based on attendance.