Flipped Learning

Flipped Learning :

Flipped learning is a methodology that helps teachers to prioritize active learning during class time by assigning students lecture materials and presentations to be viewed at home or outside of class.(Lesley University)

Flipped learning is a pedagogical approach in which the conventional notion of classroom-based learning is inverted, so that students are introduced to the learning material before class, with classroom time then being used to deepen understanding through discussion with peers and problems solving activities facilitated by teachers. 

A flipped classroom is an instructional strategy and a type of blended learning that reverse the traditional learning environment by delivering instructional content, often online, outside of the classroom. It moves activities, including those that may have traditionally been considered homework. In flipped classroom, students watch online lectures, collaborate in online discussions, or carryout research at home while engaging in concepts in the classroom with the guidance of mentor.

Advantages:

• Students can consume lecture materials at their own pace.
• The teacher is present while students apply new knowledge
• Flipped classroom uses a more application based approach for students(i.e. hands on and problem solving activities)
• Flipped classroom utilizes a student centered teaching model
• Communication is generally emphasized in flipped classroom setting.

Disadvantages:

• Students may struggle due to their developing personal responsibility.
• Flipped classroom leads to increased computer time
• Time taking process.
• Required learning atmosphere at home as well.

Role of Facilitator (Teacher) in flipped learning :

As a facilitator a good teacher makes learner aware about their goal. A teacher can change a classroom in smart and active learning methodologies.

• Plan ahead and think about the needs of students.
• Teacher must consider how to use students strength to address their challenges.
• Teach students how to use classroom material.
• Teach students to ask questions to acquire information.
• Monitor the amount of discussion student do.
• Give student opportunity to take responsibility for maintaining their classroom.

HOW TO IMPLEMENT A FLIPPED CLASSROOM?

Jeff Dunn (2014) has wrote a short piece on “The 6-step guide to flipping your classroom”, which presented 6 easy steps for implementing flipped classroom.

1. Plan :Figure out which lesson in particular you want to flip. Outline the key learning outcomes and a lesson plan.

2. Record : Instead of teaching this lesson in-person, make a video. A screencast works. Make sure it contains all the key elements you’d mention in the classroom.

In Bergmann and Sams’ book (2012), they also pointed out that do not make a video just for the sake of making a video. Only do so when you feel these are appropriate and necessary. It all depends on the educational goal of your lesson. If making videos better facilitate your instructional goal, then go ahead.

3. Share :Send the video to your students. Make it engaging and clear. Explain that the video’s content will be fully discussed in class.

4. Change :Now that your students have viewed your lesson, they’re prepared to actually go more in-depth than ever before.

5. Group :An effective way to discuss the topic is to separate into groups where students are given a task to perform. Write a poem, a play, make a video, etc.

6. Regroup :Get the class back together to share the individual group’s work with everyone. Ask questions, dive deeper than ever before.

After the six steps, Review, Revise, and Repeat!

Some other strategies that can be used in in-class activities include:

• Active learning. Allow students to apply concepts in class where they can ask peers or instructors for feedback and clarification.
• Peer instruction. Students can teach each other by explaining concepts or working on small problems.
• Collaborative learning. Collaborative learning activities could increase student engagement, enhance student understanding, and promote collective intelligence.
• Problem-based learning. Class time can be spent working on problems that can last for the duration of a semester.
• Discussions or debate. Give students the opportunity to articulate their thoughts on the spot and to develop their arguments in support of their opinions or claims.