Evaluation of a Flipped Examination Model Implemented in a Final-Year Undergraduate Pharmacotherapeutics Course

Abstract

Objective. To assess final-year pharmacy students’ performance on and evaluate their experience with a “flipped examination” vs a traditional examination for an advanced clinical pharmacy course.

Methods. Students devised multiple-choice questions for the flipped examination. The Biggs revised 2-factor Study Process Questionnaire was administered before and after the examination to assess any possible changes in the students’ perceptions of their level of engagement in the learning process. Focus group discussions also were conducted to further gauge the students’ feedback and insights into the flipped examination experience.

Results. Changes in mean total study process scores at the deep and surface levels of learning were significant. The flipped examination experience was enjoyable, facilitated a less-stressful learning environment, and improved the students’ learning satisfaction, knowledge, and assessment grades.

Conclusion. The flipped examination model is an innovative instructional approach that can bring about significant educational gains if designed well pedagogically.