Return to the unknown normal: transition of team-based learning from a COVID-19 enforced online version to an on-site version

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Source: Frontiers Medicine

Original: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmed.2026.1712200...

Published: 2026-02-11T00:00:00Z

A study at the Faculty of Dentistry analyzed the transition of team-based learning (TBL) from an online version forced by COVID-19 to a face-to-face format in students of the 2nd year of a bachelor's program. The questionnaire was filled out by 54 students (40% of responses) and 11 out of 19 teachers (57.8% of responses); group and individual interviews were also conducted. Both students and teachers preferred the face-to-face phase of readiness assurance (RAT), teachers also preferred the application phase (p < 0.05). Overall, 66% of students and 72% of teachers preferred the on-site TBL, no teacher preferred the online version (p < 0.0001). Students experienced greater engagement in face-to-face form. Interviews revealed that online allowed for teaching to be observed without travel and relaxed group work, while face-to-face discussions were easier and teachers had better control. Overall, both groups adapted to the face-to-face version and appreciated the environment for interactions necessary for active learning.