Articles-Thought Leadership Trends in Interactive Learning | Page 2

How does EBSCO define interactive learning for the healthcare industry?
Interactive learning in healthcare often begins in the academic setting, with healthcare students of all disciplines
utilizing material delivered online in real time, often on mobile devices in the form of e-learning modules, videos,
e-books, and e-journals, as examples.
Hospitals and health systems are also incorporating interactive learning modalities into clinician orientation,
preceptorship, residency programs, and ongoing education requirements. High value, evidence-based e-learning
content delivered via a learning management system supports interactive learning for healthcare workers and
promotes safe, effective patient care. To augment classroom education many academic and healthcare organizations
are now utilizing simulation, creating hands-on clinical learning experiences. This technique transforms conceptual
material into “real-life” scenarios.
Another application of interactive learning in healthcare is in patient education and engagement. Patient education
content delivered electronically via portals and other online modalities provides an opportunity for patients to
prepare ahead of an appointment. This allows the healthcare provider to focus on reinforcement of education
concepts and engage further with the patient in a collaborative conversation, improving patient engagement in shared
decision-making.
What is meant by the term “flipped classroom?”
The flipped classroom is a theoretical framework describing a new way for learners to obtain skills and apply new
concepts. The flipped classroom model inverts the traditional approaches of classroom lecture to a more interactive
approach. Materials are reviewed by learners at their own pace outside the classroom, most often delivered in an
online format. The classroom format is transformed into a discussion forum, experiential hands-on activity, or another
form of interactive learning instead of the educator providing only a lecture. The concept can be applied in all forms
of learning and enhances learner engagement and overall success.
How does interactive learning change the role of the instructor? (We’ve heard
it said that the “sage on stage” becomes the “guide on side.” Is this accurate?)
Yes, interactive learning changes the role of the instructor. Instead of preparing and delivering a traditional lecture in
the classroom, the instructor facilitates and enhances learning by engaging in collaborative classroom work with the
focus on mastery and application of concepts. Instructors reinforce learning that students have participated in outside
the classroom setting, using a coaching model that includes guiding discussion versus lecturing. Interactive learning
changes how an instructor prepares the curriculum, chooses and assigns the learning material, and engages with
students within the classroom setting.
What are the benefits of interactive learning for the healthcare student?
Interactive learning has proven to improve overall student achievement of learning goals. Healthcare students benefit
by incorporation of a variety of teaching-learning modalities to augment learning (as mentioned above). With
interactive learning approaches, students have time outside the classroom to study at their own pace, re-review
material as often as needed, and focus on areas where guidance from an instructor could assist in solidifying concepts
further. Students also benefit through interaction with other students and getting more timely feedback. Students’
concurrent access and use of e-resources on mobile platforms augments classroom discussion and participation in
interactive activities.
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