Which of the following best describes a key characteristic of a flipped classroom?

The key characteristic of a flipped classroom is that students engage in independent study at home, typically by reviewing lecture materials or other educational resources. This approach allows class time to be utilized for more interactive activities, such as discussions, problem-solving, or collaborative work with peers. The focus is on making the most of the classroom experience by encouraging students to come prepared, having covered the initial content beforehand. This leads to deeper engagement and understanding of the material during in-class activities, as students can apply what they learned independently in a supportive, social environment.

In contrast, a traditional approach usually features lectures during class times, which does not align with the flipped model. Group activities may indeed occur in a flipped classroom, but they are not the main feature—the emphasis remains on self-directed study at home. While online instruction is a component for many flipped classrooms, it's not exclusively delivered online; rather, it can involve various forms of content delivery that students access independently. Thus, engaging in independent study at home is the defining aspect of a flipped classroom structure.