Applying Iterative Student Feedback across Flipped Classroom and Flexible Teaching Approaches: Impact on Veterinary Students' Learning Experience

Simple Summary Iterative feedback from students using a research-supported, flipped classroom delivery within a foundational veterinary gastrointestinal anatomy and physiology course suggested a strong preference for change from flipped to flexible delivery. Integration of broader course feedback enhanced the student experience in the subsequent flexible delivery iteration. Feedback requested the following: that online teaching materials be made available earlier in the semester rather than progressively; the re-introduction of face-to-face lectures; and full-length lecture videos with a more conversational presentation style in addition to already provided shorter, modularized videos. Once the enhanced flexible learning approach was employed, a substantially improved student experience was reported, with enhanced work/study/life balance, reduced stress levels, and more efficient time use when studying. Our results highlight the importance of considering student perceptions and the student experience when designing and implementing educational interventions. This teaching method offers veterinary educators an innovative and efficient starting point for designing foundational coursework.Abstract No single teaching strategy supports all learning styles in veterinary science students. To facilitate more convenient and flexible teaching, learning, and revision, an innovative online digital learning platform-VetCloud-was developed to provide access to modularized programme content across courses to promote active, integrated learning. This study aimed to understand student perceptions regarding the enhancement of the student learning experience in a foundational course in gastrointestinal anatomy and physiology at The University of Queensland across two learning cycles, via applying iterative student feedback in transitioning a flipped classroom approach using VetCloud for the delivery of lecture content in 2022 to a flexible learning approach in 2023. By 2023, the use of VetCloud in the flexible learning approach improved students' work/study/life balance, reduced their stress levels, and enabled a more efficient use of their time when studying, compared to the flipped classroom approach in 2022. Surveying student perceptions was integral to maximizing their learning experience. Data clearly demonstrates that students will mix-and-match how they interact with available options provided via flexible delivery on an individualized basis. This teaching method offers veterinary educators an innovative and efficient approach to veterinary student education in anatomy and physiology while enhancing student well-being.