Flipped Classroom: the Novel Learning Environment for Medical Students

Introduction: The ongoing pandemic caused by Coronavirus has strongly initiated digital developments and closed in-person classes in higher education. In order to achieve remote high-quality online delivery, the learning method "flipped classroom" has been introduced to both students and teachers. The flipped classroom represents a type of blended learning aiming to increase students' engagement by preparing materials for learning at home and having faceto-face problem-solving during class time. Aim: To assess attitudes and perceptions of medical undergraduate students toward flipped classroom method of learning. Material and methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted among undergraduate students attending Faculty of Medicine University of Belgrade during January 2022, using online questionnaire. The questionnaire used in this study consisted of 34 questions and was divided among six main sections: demographics, overall attitudes, communication, independence in learning, preparedness and motivation, and creative thinking and collaborative work. Results: A total of 60 medical students were included in the study. Two thirds of the students were female (75,0%), with the mean age of 23,48 ± 1,53 years. Most of the respondents were fifthand sixth-year students. The results of this study revealed that significant differences in perceptions of the students toward flipped classroom method of learning between gender and age group were found. Female and younger students had more positive attitudes toward flipped classroom than male and older students. Conclusion: Flipped classroom method of learning suits the demands of medical students at a university level, advancing their problem-solving skills and higher-order thinking. Bearing in mind that younger students had positive perceptions and attitudes toward flipped classroom method of learning, curriculum designers and educators should adjust the lessons and teaching methods strategies to students' preferences in order to help them to gain their full academic potential.