I've recently had a number of conversations with colleagues about the 'Flipped Classroom' model of teaching and learning. In a nutshell, it is the concept of using the time in class for learning, discussion and activity that benefits from close intervention of the teacher and allocating tasks as homework that can be brought back to the classroom for review and discussion with the support of the teacher.
The Flipped Classroom model acknowledges that students often use class time to watch and listen, leaving them to do the puzzling and struggling with learning on their own at home or in the library with mates. The model has sprung to prominence in recent years through the evolution of technology that has simplified the creation of video and audio with everyday tools. It is not without controversy and to be fully understood should involve a review of actual practice in its various forms.
Bendigo Senior Secondary College teacher Andrew Douch has used the model with his VCE Douchy's Biology podcasts for many years and while not teaching fulltime in 2012, his podcast has approx 1000 downloads per day by students around the world. He's been 'flipped' for many years.
Gathered here are a number of resources that I consider, provide a balanced overview of the Flipped Classroom model. They will inform and stimulate discussion of the topic.
Educause: The Flipped Classroom - Pro and Con (July 2012) In this article Educause have provided an excellent summary of both sides of the argument in relation to the Flipped Classroom model. This is an extensive article and will require some time to explore fully.
Reflecting on the flipped classroom through student feedback (May 2012) I've chosen this article as it contributes student voice as feedback to support the discussion.
Reverse Instruction: Dan Pink and Karl’s “Fisch Flip” (November 2010) This post is a couple of years old but provides background philosophy with reference to the work of Daniel Pink author of A Whole new mind,
The Flipped Classroom Model: A full picture (June 2011) By Jackie Gerstein Ed.D, this is a comprehensive description including diagrams of the model and the presentation embedded above.
We are in a new age of learning that is providing opportunities for classroom innovation. Do you have an experience of the Flipped Classroom model to share?