Online Team-based Learning in Psychology Students, 2020-2021

Background: Team-based learning (TBL) is an interactive teaching method that has been implemented in person and online. Past research has evaluated in person TBL; however, little is known about online TBL. Aims: This study evaluated the effectiveness of online TBL in psychology students during the COVID-19 pandemic and their satisfaction with their course. Sample and method. Thirty-six first and second year psychology students who participated in TBL courses between September-January 2020-21 completed an online survey. Participants completed a TBL questionnaire assessing their attitudes with TBL experience, rated their overall satisfaction with their team, and online delivery of their course, and self-reported their grades. They also listed the one aspect they liked the most about the TBL sessions, and suggested one way to improve them. Results and conclusions: Our results suggested that peer evaluation motivated second-year students to work harder and more collaboratively compared to first-year students. Second-year students also reported that teams make good decisions and working with a team helped them develop team-working skills compared with first-year students. Students with previous TBL experience reported that being part of a team discussion improved their ability to think through problems compared to students with no previous TBL experience. Forty percent of the participants enjoyed their online TBL course suggesting it is a viable teaching method in psychology and may be preferred over traditional lecture-style or in person courses.