Examining the effectiveness of discussion-oriented flipped learning environments

The overall aim of the study was to examine the effects of the discussion-oriented flipped learning environments on the achievements, satisfaction levels, and high-ordered thinking skills of students. This semi-experimentally planned research was prepared in accordance with the 3x2 factorial design and conducted with a group of 190 second-year coeducational students attending their undergraduate education at Uşak University. A six-week application was conducted with three groups of students, who were classified as participating in discussions in the newly-developed discussion-oriented flipped learning environments with mandatory, voluntary, and non-attendee participation status. As the data collection tool of the research, achievement tests consisting of multiple choice and open-ended questions were used together with the satisfaction scales (related to videos, discussions, and general environment) developed by the researcher. As a result of the posttests applied after the application, it was determined that the overall achievement scores of the students, who participated in the discussions in discussion-oriented flipped learning environments, were significantly higher than those who did not participate in the discussions. It was determined that there was statistically no significant difference between the satisfaction levels of students concerning the videos, while the discussion satisfaction levels of students who participated on a mandatory basis were statistically significantly higher compared to those who participated on a voluntary basis. In terms of high-ordered thinking skill scores, it was determined that mandatory or voluntary participation in discussions in flipped learning environments have a significant and positive impact on high-ordered thinking skills, in comparison to the non-participation.