Flipped Classroom Formats in a Problem-Based Learning Course: Experiences of First-Year Bachelor European Public Health Students

Objectives: Students would like to see more creativity and flexibility in the performance of problem-based learning (PBL). Therefore, we applied flipped classroom formats in a course of the Bachelor European Public Health at Maastricht University to investigate the experiences of the students. The main objective was to stimulate interaction between students mutual, and between students and teachers. Methods: 304 first-year students following the course on “Ageing in Europe” in three academic years, were asked to fill out questions focussing on prior knowledge, preparation work, and group session parameters, e.g., duration, content, extent of interaction and format group session. Results: In-class activities, such as debate, making a mind map, giving a pitch, role-play e.g., were highly appreciated by students, especially the interactivity and discussions with the experts during these sessions. Students felt they applied knowledge. Conclusion: Flipped classroom formats can be used to extend the Maastricht University PBL design and students do recommend this. It can be a relevant and challenging answer on the articulated request for more creativity and flexibility in the regular PBL format.