The rapid adoption of virtual platforms such as Zoom and Teams during the COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped the landscape of synchronous instruction, particularly in flipped classroom models. This study investigates whether the medium of synchronous interaction—face-to-face (frontal) versus virtual—affects student learning outcomes, short and long-time memory retention, and satisfaction within a flipped learning environment.

A prospective, comparative design was employed, with data collected from students across two instructional modalities. Learning outcomes were assessed at three time points: immediately after each lesson, at the end of the course, and four months post-completion. Additionally, participants completed Likert-scale questionnaires to evaluate satisfaction levels and perceptions of the learning process.

Results indicate that face-to-face synchronous instruction significantly enhances immediate knowledge retention compared to virtual sessions. Survey feedback reinforces these findings, as in-person question-and-answer lessons were beneficial for deepening understanding and boosting learning efficiency. Students also expressed higher satisfaction with face-to-face modalities, improved alignment with their learning styles, and a desire for more in-person sessions.

However, final examination scores and long-term retention at the four-month follow-up did not differ statistically between the two instructional formats, suggesting that additional individual study and review before exams may mitigate any initial advantage conferred by the face-to-face modality. Consequently, while face-to-face synchronous instruction appears to foster stronger immediate learning outcomes and heightened satisfaction, both modalities ultimately demonstrate comparable long-term performance when ongoing learning processes are taken into account.

These findings bring into focus the potential benefits of integrating face-to-face synchronous components within a flipped classroom framework, offering insights for educators seeking to optimize instructional design and student engagement in blended learning environments.

Keywords: Face-to-Face Instruction, Virtual Synchronous Instruction, Flipped Classroom, Instruction Modalities.