I recently saw a survey asking me to rank student engagement approaches. Options included active learning, flipped, and problem-based learning. I think we need to carefully define these as I think there is overlap and these may relate to different aspects of course structure.
An active learning classroom may also be flipped. A flipped classroom may also be problem-based. And a problem-based classroom is typically considered one active learning approach. If we think about these as the How vs When/Where aspects of teaching we can divide them up like this:
| How | When/Where |
| Problem-based learning | Flipped classroom |
The Flipped Learning Network (“Definition of Flipped Learning,” n.d.) states: “Flipped Learning is a pedagogical approach in which direct instruction moves from the group learning space to the individual learning space, and the resulting group space is transformed into a dynamic, interactive learning environment where the educator guides students as they apply concepts and engage creatively in the subject matter.” The main concept here is that students work together to learn – typically active learning. The alone-time (out of class time) may be used to learn the subject matter through reading and/or lectures.
Active learning is any format in which students are engaged in learning the material “by thinking, discussing, investigating, and creating” (Center for Teaching Innovation, n.d.). In problem-based learning, students work in groups to brainstorm ideas, identify what they know about the problem, what they don’t know but must learn in order to solve the problem, develop an action plan for research, and discuss the topics and concepts researched, eventually coming to some agreement on the best resolution.
Course structure can be further broken down by looking at the How, When, Where options:
For details on each of these aspects, please take a look at the Design Principles webpage: https://designgrp.online/b3/
References
Center for Teaching Innovation. (n.d.). Active Learning. Cornell University. Retrieved July 28, 2025, from https://teaching.cornell.edu/teaching-resources/active-collaborative-learning/active-learning
Definition of Flipped Learning. (n.d.). Flipped Learning Network Hub. Retrieved January 23, 2022, from https://flippedlearning.org/definition-of-flipped-learning/.