If some of your staff members have attempted flipped instruction for their classes but have not been successful or if you have a staffer who wants to try it using a different approach, then this blog may be just what you need.
Flipping instruction, direct instruction at home by video and guided practice (homework) in the classroom, has become a popular method for learning/instruction. Some early research results done in 2013 by the Flipped Learning Network reported “higher student achievement, increased student engagement and better attitudes toward learning and school.” All well and good, but, as Ms Gonzalez points out in this blog, “…if it’s going to work, the at-home learning absolutely must happen.” And of course, this component of flipped learning is where teachers have the least control. Distractions in the home environment, lack of student committment and perhaps limited technology makes this connection to the flipped learning program a tenuous one.
Gonzalez, in her blog, ” Flipped Instruction With a Different Twist – Modifying the Flipped Classroom: The “In-Class” Version”, Edutopia, March 24, 2014, offers an option: the “In-Class Flip.” Using this approach, the video that would be used at home for instruction becomes a station in the classroom for small group rotation. During this portion of the flip, other students work independently or in small groups. Since the direct instruction (video)runs on its own, this allows the teacher time for more individual attention with students.
As with any teaching practice, this flip has advantages and challenges, most of which are time related issues. If you would like to read more about this concept, please go to: http://www.edutopia.org/blog/flipped-classroom-in-class-version-jennifer-gonzalez
If you would like more information regarding whether to “flip or not flip” you can go to: http://www.edutopia.org/blog/biggest-hurdle-flipping-your-class-jon-bergmann or to http://www.edutopia.org/blog/flipped-classroom-pro-and-con-mary-beth-hertz
