Effectiveness of flipped classroom combined with team-, case-, lecture- and evidence-based learning on ophthalmology teaching for eight-year program students

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to investigate the benefits and challenges of the flipped classroom combined with team-, case-, lecture- and evidence-based learning (FC-TCLEBL) for ophthalmology teaching for eight-year program students. METHODS: FC-TCLEBL and the traditional lecture-based classroom (LBC) were compared based on student and teacher feedback questionnaires, student learning burden, and scores on standardized tests as well as their effects on the abilities of clinical thinking, scientific research, active-learning, practical application, humanistic care and communication with patients. RESULTS: Both the students and teachers were more satisfied with the FC-TCLEBL model. More students in the FC-TCLEBL group agreed that the course helped them to develop skills in creative thinking, problem solving, and teamwork. Students in the FC-TCLEBL group spent significantly more time preparing for class than those in the LBC group, but the time spent on review was significantly lower in the FC-TCLEBL group. The students from the FC-TCLEBL group performed better in a post-test on diabetic retinopathy (DR) as compared to the LBC group. CONCLUSIONS: FC-TCLEBL teaching model is effective and suitable for ophthalmology teaching.