Pre-class Preparation Research Articles

Exploration of Blended Teaching Mode for Ideological and Political Courses in Universities

In the era of “Internet plus,” the hybrid teaching model has injected new vitality into the reform of ideological and political education in colleges and universities, promoted the connection between online and offline teaching, built an air cloud classroom, promoted the sharing of high-quality educational resources, and enabled the reform of ideological and political education, which is conducive to stimulating students’ interest in learning ideological and political courses and improving the quality of ideological and political education. College ideological and political education teachers should actively learn the concept of blended learning, create micro lessons based on teaching content, introduce current political news, and use micro lessons to guide students’ pre-class preparation. Universities can carry out online live teaching, conduct interactive sessions, group discussions, and online testing to improve the quality of online teaching, collect online teaching data, conduct precise offline teaching, and optimize the connection between in-class and out-of-class teaching, utilizing big data to conduct teaching evaluation, collect student teaching suggestions, and comprehensively improve the quality of blended learning in ideological and political courses.

Flipped Classrooms: Addressing Students Participation and Preparedness

The flipped classroom concept has gained attention in recent years as a modern pedagogical approach that offers an alternative to traditional teaching methods. While the flipped classroom model represents a significant shift in teaching strategies, its effectiveness in promoting active student participation and engagement cannot be guaranteed. The widespread use of mobile phones and computers has had a negative impact on digital learners, leading to a decline in the review of pre-class materials among higher education students. This paper critically examines the potential of the flipped classroom as an active learning strategy and raises questions about its effectiveness in meeting students' diverse needs. Results indicate that the flipped classroom teaching approach enhances student engagement and academic achievement. However, the effectiveness of this method hinges on digital learners adapting their study habits. A significant number of students fail to review course materials outside of class due to their reliance on digital tools, resulting in reduced pre-class preparation and fewer active participants in classroom discussions.

Mind the Gap: Investigating Disaggregated Student Performance in an Upper-Division Biochemistry Course Following Team-Based Learning.

Team-based learning (TBL) is a highly intense active learning pedagogy that uses a cycle of preclass preparation, formative assessment for readiness, mini-lectures, and complex team exercises. Consistent with the literature on active learning, prior research on TBL consistently shows its benefits for student outcomes as compared with previous lecture. However, little work has examined student outcomes disaggregated by demographic variable. We analyzed assessment and student demographic data (i.e., binary gender, racial/ethnic group, generational status) in three semesters of TBL in an upper-division biochemistry course to understand the degree to which performance could be predicted by student demographics. We use theoretical and empirical research from social psychology to hypothesize that the intense interpersonal interactions of TBL could activate psychological threats, the effects of which would be measurable as differences in student performance that correlate with demographic variables. Our regression analysis did not support this hypothesis. This null result invites a deeper discussion on how we measure the potential effects of active learning on student outcomes, particularly given how important it is to account for intersectional and invisible identities.

Analyzing Strategies for Enhancing Classroom Interaction and Knowledge Application Through Application-Oriented Pre-Class Preparation Materials

This study explores the impact of application-oriented pre-class preparation materials on enhancing classroom interaction and fostering the practical application of knowledge. Using a qualitative approach, data were collected through semi-structured interviews, focus groups, and classroom observations in two undergraduate courses: sociology and mechanical engineering. The findings reveal that materials such as case studies, problem-based learning (PBL) scenarios, and simulations significantly increase student engagement, participation, and critical thinking. Additionally, the use of these materials shifts the role of instructors from content deliverers to facilitators of learning, promoting a more collaborative and inclusive classroom environment. However, the study also identifies challenges, including task complexity and the need for adequate support and scaffolding to ensure accessibility for all students. These insights provide actionable recommendations for educators and suggest directions for future research to further optimize the use of application-oriented materials in diverse educational contexts.

Integrating group awareness into team‐based learning

AbstractBackgroundTeam‐based learning (TBL) is a widely recognised pedagogical strategy used in diverse fields and courses. Despite the success of TBL, certain concerns have arisen regarding social loafing within group collaboration contexts; this loafing can reduce the overall effectiveness of learning.ObjectivesThis study addressed the aforementioned concerns by integrating group awareness (GA) information into each stage of TBL, resulting in a TBL + GA system designed to enhance TBL instruction. During online collaborative learning, GA information provides insights into the activities completed by peers and thus the peers' preparedness and achievement; this knowledge fosters motivation, participation, and reflection.MethodsA quasiexperiment was performed with students from two freshman classes (40 and 41 students, respectively) in a Taiwanese university; the control and experimental classes used the TBL only and TBL + GA systems, respectively. Student learning effort was evaluated in terms of preclass preparation, including the use of learning materials and online test scores. Learning achievement was evaluated by assessing the quality of students' assignments. Student feedback, including peer evaluations and students' perceptions of their TBL experience, was collected and compared for the two classes.Results and ConclusionsThe TBL + GA system significantly enhanced the preclass preparation efforts of the participants, mitigating social loafing. This improvement manifested as higher practice engagement and better online assessment scores. The TBL + GA system also improved assignment quality and elicited more constructive and positive peer feedback.ImplicationsIntegrating GA information into each stage of TBL may positively affect the effectiveness of instruction. The proposed TBL + GA system can serve as a practical model for instructors seeking to enhance TBL implementation and foster a more engaging and constructive learning environment.

Empowering competence: A program-wide active learning framework for a pharmacy program

ObjectiveThis study aimed to develop and implement a program-wide active learning framework to guide active learning and assessment efforts in an entry-to-practice competency-based Doctor of Pharmacy program. MethodsThe development of the framework involved 3 stages: creation of a framework aligned with the program’s guiding principles, provision of training and support to faculty and students, and evaluation of the students’ and academic staff satisfaction using an online survey over 2 academic years (2022–2023). Data from this survey were analyzed descriptively. ResultsAn active learning framework that was aligned with the program’s guiding principles while allowing flexibility for individual teaching styles was developed. It consisted of 4 stages: preclass preparation, in-class work, prelaboratory preparation, and in-laboratory activities (emphasizing knowledge acquisition and competency development). Academic staff surveys reported higher satisfaction of staff in year 2 than year 3 of the program, with indications of further training on specific modalities. Students’ satisfaction improved from year 2 to 3, particularly, in areas related to class objectives, learning environment, and feedback. ConclusionThe transformation of a curriculum that includes the evolution of the teaching and learning strategy is a complex, long-term project that deserves continuing attention. Having frameworks in place helps the management, instructors, and students to understand the global direction, stay focused, and support the implementation of competency-based education and student-centered learning.

Research on the Design of Blended Teaching of "Food Physical and Chemical Inspection" Course

The blended teaching mode is a cutting-edge teaching approach in current higher vocational education. Compared with traditional teaching methods, it has advantages such as rich teaching resources, intuitive teaching methods, no time and space constraints, and strong student classroom participation. These advantages effectively stimulate students' enthusiasm for learning and improve classroom teaching effectiveness. This paper takes the core course "Food Physical and Chemical Inspection" of the higher vocational food inspection and testing technology major as an example. Based on online classrooms and simulation training platforms, a complete blended teaching design case is designed, covering pre-class preparation, in-class tutoring, post-class summarization, and reflection evaluation. Practice has proven that the blended teaching mode of online and offline fully utilizes teaching time inside and outside the classroom, mobilizes students' enthusiasm and initiative, and achieves the expected teaching objectives.

Measuring Pharmacy Student Engagement in a Pharmacotherapy Course With Required Attendance

ObjectiveThis study aimed to evaluate student engagement in a pharmacotherapy course with required attendance, identify intervals where students were most and least likely to be engaged, and assess student perceptions of the importance of engagement. MethodsIn 2022, the pharmacotherapy course faculty implemented a graded attendance policy. A survey instrument was developed to gauge student engagement throughout in-class sessions and included 3 questions regarding engagement to determine whether students were on-task, off-task–related, or off-task–unrelated. Each week throughout the semester, students were randomly surveyed for a beginning, middle, and end time point. A second survey was utilized to collect perception data from students regarding attendance and engagement. The perception survey was released during the midpoint of the semester and at the end of the semester. ResultsThe overall attendance rate was 91.1% (SD 4.64%) for the semester. Generally, students reported being on-task when surveyed. The average weekly tasks rates were 77.7% on-task, 15.8% off-task–related, and 6.5% off-task–unrelated. For the perception survey, both time points had a high response rate (82.8% midpoint survey, 77.1% end of semester). Most students had positive perceptions regarding mandatory attendance, engagement, and pre-class preparation. ConclusionThis study endorses high levels of student engagement in a pharmacotherapy course with required attendance. In addition, student perceptions were generally positive regarding required attendance. Future investigations need to be completed on the non-performance benefits of attending classes.

Development and implementation of a case-based collaborative learning flipped classroom preclinical neurology course

This paper describes the development, content, structure, and implementation of a case-based collaborative learning, flipped classroom, integrated preclinical neurology, neuroanatomy, and neuroscience course for first year medical students at Harvard Medical School. We report the methods for pre-class preparation, in-class instruction, and evaluation; student feedback with respect to content, teaching method, and learning environment; and several lessons learned regarding how to optimize preparatory and in-class learning in a case-based flipped classroom course.

Implementation of team based learning for MBBS students – An innovative teaching learning method in medical education

Team-Based Learning (TBL) is an educational approach that enhances student engagement through individual assessments and collaborative group work. It is an effective and structured form of small group learning adaptable to large classroom settings. TBL ensures student accountability through various stages, including pre-class preparation, readiness assurance tests, problem-solving exercises, and immediate feedback. This study aims to implement and assess the efficacy of the TBL strategy among MBBS students in a large group teaching environment. The pilot study adopted a TBL approach, involving steps such as pre-class preparation with PDF materials and a WhatsApp video guide issued a week prior, individual and team readiness assurance tests (iRAT and tRAT) conducted via Google Forms and hard copy MCQs, clarification sessions on MCQs and relevant medical topics, and collaborative learning through case scenarios related to Type 2 diabetes. Discussions and conclusions were facilitated by the faculty, followed by immediate and scheduled feedback using Google Forms. Statistical analysis was performed using an unpaired t-test to compare iRAT and tRAT scores. The study gathered 133 responses from the first batch and 140 from the second batch of first year MBBS students. The analysis revealed significant improvements in scores from iRAT to tRAT, indicating the effectiveness of TBL in enhancing student learning outcomes. Feedback from the students showed high levels of engagement and interest in the learning process, with over 98% in both batches finding the TBL approach interesting and interactive. The findings suggest that TBL is a valuable and effective educational strategy that improves learning outcomes and fosters collaborative learning among students.

Using case-based learning supported by role-playing situational teaching method in endocrine physiology education.

Embedding clinically relevant learning experience in basic science subjects is desired for the preclinical phase of undergraduate medical education. The present study aimed to modify case-based learning (CBL) with a role-playing situational teaching method and assess the student feedback and learning effect. One hundred seventy-six sophomore students majoring in clinical medicine from Harbin Medical University were randomly divided into two groups: the control group (n = 90), who received traditional hybrid teaching, and the experimental group (n = 86), who received the role-playing situational teaching. Students in the experimental group were given a 1-wk preclass preparation to dramatize a hyperthyroidism scenario through online autonomous learning of thyroid physiology and performed the patient's consultation process in class, followed by a student presentation about key points of lecture content and a question-driven discussion. A posttest and questionnaire survey were conducted after class. The test scores of the two groups had no statistical differences, whereas the rate of excellence (high scores) of the experimental group was significantly higher than that of the control group. Furthermore, the record of online self-directed learning engagements was significantly improved in the experimental group. In the questionnaire, >70% of the students showed positive attitudes toward the role-playing situational teaching method and were willing to participate in other chapters of the physiology course. Such results show that CBL supported by a role-playing situational teaching method encourages active learning and improves the application of basic knowledge of physiology, which can be incorporated in the preclinical curricula to bridge the gap between theory and practice.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Formal application through structured role-play is often overlooked in physiology education. In traditional case-based learning (CBL), clinical cases are the subject and unfocused discussion often occurs. The present study aimed to modify CBL with a role-playing situational teaching method and assess the student feedback and learning effect. The results show that the new teaching model encourages active learning and improves the application of basic knowledge of physiology.

Relationship between Effectiveness of Flipped Classroom, Blended Learning and Task-oriented Teaching Methods on Academic Achievement among Vocational College Students in an OBE IT system environment

This research explores the effectiveness of flipped classrooms, blended learning, and task-oriented teaching methods within an Outcome-Based Education (OBE) framework in vocational IT education. The study aims to determine how these innovative teaching methodologies enhance learning outcomes, improve student engagement, and better prepare students for industry demands. By integrating digital platforms with traditional classroom instruction, the flipped classroom model enables pre-class preparation through online materials, allowing for more interactive and application-focused sessions in class. Blended learning supports this by providing a mix of online and face-to-face interactions, offering flexibility and catering to diverse learning preferences. Task-oriented teaching aligns educational activities with real-world tasks, enhancing practical skills crucial for the IT sector. Comparative analysis with traditional educational practices shows that these modern methods significantly increase student participation and knowledge retention, promoting deeper understanding and greater application of IT skills. The study suggests that integrating these methods within an OBE framework not only meets educational objectives more effectively but also aligns with industry requirements, thus enhancing vocational education's responsiveness to labor market needs. Future research is recommended to explore long-term impacts, cross-disciplinary applications, and the integration of emerging technologies. This study serves as a foundation for policymakers and educators aiming to revamp curricular designs and teaching strategies in vocational education to improve educational outcomes and job readiness.

Discussion on the Evaluation Method of University Physics Experiment Assessment Based on “4C” Ability Cultivation

Education evaluation concerns the direction of education development, what use evaluation command bar, what kind of school orientation. To develop students abilities in Creativity and Innovation, Critical-thinking and Problem-solving, Communication, Collaboration. From the general idea of “Improve the evaluation of results, strengthen the process evaluation, explore value-added evaluation and make full use of information technology”. Study of University Physical Experimental Assessment Methodology, divided the assessment evaluation into formative and final examination two parts, and explored formative assessment methods and final evaluation methods. The formative evaluation methods, including “pre-class preparation, class performance, experimental results” are proposed for most of the three, and the final evaluation of many forms of the examination, such as “written exam, work, virtual simulation, innovative physical work display, group reporting and replies”.

Online Teaching Effect Evaluation and Analysis Using Combined Weighting Technique

An evaluation index system of online teaching satisfaction was established based on the data of a questionnaire survey. In addition, an evaluation index system of an online teaching effect with four first-level indexes and 14 second-level indexes was constructed from the aspects of pre-class preparation, video production, classroom teaching, and after-class guidance. Then, a combination weighting–Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) model was established using the analytic hierarchy process (AHP), Criteria Importance Through Inter-criteria Correlation method, and TOPSIS model. The objective is to evaluate the online teaching effect of 10 engineering technology universities in Henan Province. Results show that the online teaching effect of these universities is generally satisfactory. In addition, video production and classroom teaching are important factors affecting online teaching, which, however, is slightly influenced by pre-class preparation. On this basis, this study proposes to enhance online assessment, improve students’ attention in class, strengthen teacher–student communication, actively perfect teaching resources, and create a good learning environment.

A Digital Logic Flipped Classroom for Promoting Students’ Preclass Preparation and Participation in Classroom Activities Using a Guided Reflective Thinking Mechanism

A Digital Logic Flipped Classroom for Promoting Students’ Preclass Preparation and Participation in Classroom Activities Using a Guided Reflective Thinking Mechanism

An Applied Research on the Teaching Reflection of Novice Teachers

Teaching reflection is an important link in the process of teaching practice. Effective teaching reflection can help novice teachers to understand their shortcomings in the pre-class preparation and classroom teaching. Adopting a variety of ways to reflect on teaching and studying the problems encountered in the teaching process and their solutions can help novice teachers adapt to the teaching practice, integrate into the role of teachers, improve their teaching level and contribute to improving the quality of school teaching.

Exploring the reform of pharmacology curriculum based on ChatGPT

Abstract The emergence of ChatGPT (Chat Generative Pre-trained Transformer) has created new opportunities and challenges in the field of education. This paper explores the usage of ChatGPT to improve learning efficiency, teaching effectiveness, and educational efficiency in pharmacology instruction. The study evaluated the usage of ChatGPT across three stages of pharmacology coursework: pre-class preparation, post-class extension, and evaluation, through comparison with conventional settings in these stages. Generative artificial intelligence can be used as a virtual teaching assistant and learning aid. It can be used to transform learning styles across the above three stages to focus on cultivating critical and creative thinking in students. ChatGPT can play a leading role in teaching, and help better balance the relationship between education and artificial intelligence. However, we need to clarify the status of ChatGPT as a tool and prevent over-reliance on it.

Design and Application of Evaluation Method for Civics Classroom Based on CRITIC Fuzzy Algorithm

INTRODUCTION: Through in-depth study of mathematics classroom evaluation, teachers can be provided with scientific evaluation indexes and methods to improve the quality and effectiveness of teaching, promote the overall development of students, and promote the professional growth of teachers.
 OBJECTIVES: Based on the CRITIC and fuzzy comprehensive evaluation methods, this study aims to investigate the effectiveness and accuracy of evaluation methods in math classrooms. Based on the CRITIC method, the undefined complete evaluation method was introduced to solve the problem of subjectivity and uncertainty in the evaluation process.
 METHODS: Various research methods were used, including observation, interviews, and questionnaires. By comprehensively analyzing the students' performance, feedback and assessment, and the teachers' pre-class preparation, and using the CRITIC and fuzzy comprehensive evaluation methods, the Author can accurately evaluate the strengths and the direction of improving mathematics classroom teaching.
 RESULTS: The study results show that the CRITIC and fuzzy comprehensive evaluation methods can provide a more comprehensive, accurate, and objective evaluation of the math classroom. The undefined complete evaluation method plays a vital role in dealing with ambiguity and uncertainty in the evaluation process, making the evaluation results more objective and reliable.
 CONCLUSION: Mathematics classroom evaluation methods based on the CRITIC and fuzzy comprehensive evaluation methods are effective and accurate. These findings strongly support improving the quality of mathematics classroom teaching and enhancing students' learning outcomes.

Effects of the small private online course combined with simulation-based training in a patient safety education program among nursing students: A quasi-experimental study

ObjectiveThis study aimed to explore the effects of the small private online course (SPOC) combined with simulation-based training in a patient safety education program among nursing students in China. MethodsA quasi-experimental design was conducted. A total of 219 nursing students from four parallel classes were selected from the nursing department of a health vocational college in Zhengzhou, China, from November 2020 to June 2021 and allocated to the intervention group (n = 113) and control group (n = 106). Based on SPOC, nursing students in the intervention group implemented simulation teaching in small groups, with three class hours each time, a total of two times, divided into three stages: pre-class preparation, teaching implementation, and after-class reflection. The control group received theoretical patient safety education through SPOC, implemented on the DingDing platform for two class hours each time, four times. All participants were invited to complete a demographic questionnaire and the Chinese version of Patient Safety Competency Self-Evaluation (PSCSE) before and after the intervention. ResultsA total of 103 and 102 students from the intervention and control groups completed the study. The total scores of PSCSE in the post-test of the intervention group (176.24 ± 13.73 vs. 144.64 ± 13.75) and the control group (160.87 ± 14.88 vs. 142.57 ± 15.66) were higher than those in the pre-test (P < 0.01), and the total scores of PSCSE of the intervention group were higher than those of the control group (176.24 ± 13.73 vs. 160.87 ± 14.88, P < 0.01). After intervention, the scores of PSCSE in all dimensions were increased in the intervention group (P < 0.01); in the control group, the scores of patient safety competency in most dimensions were increased (P < 0.01), except for the dimensions of reporting and response to error and communication related to error (P＞ 0.05). Except for the dimensions of knowledge and attitude of error reporting and disclosing (P＞ 0.05), the scores of other dimensions in the intervention group were higher than those in the control group (P < 0.01). ConclusionThe patient safety education program using the SPOC combined with simulation-based training can effectively improve the patient safety competency of nursing students in terms of attitude, skills, and knowledge.

Evaluation method of English online course teaching effect based on ResNet algorithm

In order to improve the accuracy of English online course teaching effect evaluation results, a paper proposed an English online course teaching effect evaluation method based on ResNet algorithm. The effect of College English online teaching was evaluated from five aspects: pre-class preparation, teaching content, basic skills, ability training, and teaching methods. Each evaluation item was set with seven levels of scoring standards. An evaluation model of the classroom teaching effect was constructed based on convolutional neural network according to the internal relationship between facial expression recognition and classroom teaching effect evaluation. The problem of network depth deepening affecting the accuracy of evaluation in convolutional neural network models was innovatively solved by utilizing the ResNet algorithm. The evaluation of the effectiveness of English online course teaching was achieved. The experimental results showed that this method could effectively improve the effect of English online course teaching evaluation and improve the teaching quality of English online courses.