SP 2023: Flipped Learning in Higher Education (Chloe Brown)

Title: Revolutionizing Education: The Flipped Classroom Model

Introduction

Education has always been a dynamic field with ever-evolving advancements in technology and research on effective teaching practices (Hauger & McCord, 2021). One approach that has gained traction in recent years is the flipped classroom model. The traditional classroom model, which has been in existence for centuries, has been criticized for its limitations in accommodating the diverse learning styles and needs of students. The flipped classroom model involves the reversal of the traditional model, where students watch instructional videos or complete readings outside of class and engage in collaborative and interactive activities during class time (Bergmann & Sams, 2012). By doing so, students can take control of their learning experience and develop a deeper understanding of the material while being supported by their peers and teachers. In this blog post, we will delve into the concept of the flipped classroom model as an innovative approach to teaching, its implementation in a specific setting, and the impacts it has on educational practices.

Overview of the Case

The flipped classroom model involves reversing the traditional order of instruction by delivering content through video lectures outside of class time and using class time for collaborative activities, problem-solving, and hands-on experiences. This approach to teaching is more student-centered, giving learners greater control over their learning experience. Students can access video lectures at their own pace, allowing them to review and revisit materials as needed. In-class time is used for active engagement and participation, which allows students to work together and apply their learning in real-world situations.

The selected article for this case study is “Flipping the Classroom: A Revolutionary Approach to Learning” by Jonathan Bergmann and Aaron Sams. The authors share their experience in implementing the flipped classroom model in their high school chemistry class. The authors faced several challenges before implementing the flipped classroom model, including students’ lack of engagement, limited class time for hands-on experiences, and the need to differentiate instruction for diverse learners. The authors found that the flipped classroom model addressed these challenges and improved students’ learning outcomes.

Instructional Application

To implement the flipped classroom model, the authors created short video lectures covering the content for each lesson, which students could access outside of class time. In-class activities included group discussions, problem-solving, and hands-on experiences such as experiments and demonstrations. The authors also used online quizzes to assess students’ understanding of the content before class.

The flipped classroom model allowed the authors to use class time more effectively for activities that promote deeper learning and problem-solving. Students were more engaged and motivated to learn, and the authors were able to differentiate instruction by providing personalized feedback and support to each student.

Impacts on Educational Practices:

According to a study by Lage, Platt, and Treglia (2000), the implementation of the flipped classroom model had several positive impacts on educational practices. Firstly, it promoted a more student-centered approach to learning, where students were actively engaged in the learning process and had more control over their learning. This shift from a teacher-centered to a student-centered approach has been recognized as a more effective way of engaging students and promoting meaningful learning experiences. Secondly, the flipped classroom model allowed for personalized instruction and support, which catered to the diverse needs and learning styles of students. By providing video lectures that students could access at their own pace, students were able to review and revisit materials as needed, which facilitated a personalized learning experience. In-class activities also provided opportunities for students to work collaboratively, allowing for peer-to-peer support and learning from each other. Thirdly, the flipped classroom model provided opportunities for deeper learning and problem-solving. By using class time for collaborative activities, problem-solving, and hands-on experiences, students were able to apply their learning in real-world situations, which promoted critical thinking and problem-solving skills. These skills are essential for the 21st century workforce, where the ability to think critically and solve complex problems is highly valued.

Furthermore, other studies have also found that the flipped classroom model has positive impacts on student achievement and learning outcomes. The flipped classroom model has been implemented successfully by many educators in various settings, including K-12 and higher education. To implement the flipped classroom model, instructors need to create short video lectures covering the content for each lesson, which students can access outside of class time. In-class time is then used for group discussions, problem-solving, and hands-on experiences, such as experiments and demonstrations. Online quizzes can also be used to assess students’ understanding of the content before class.

 

Several positive impacts on educational practices have been observed with the implementation of the flipped classroom model. Firstly, it promotes a more student-centered approach to learning, where students are actively engaged in the learning process and have more control over their learning. Secondly, the flipped classroom model allows for personalized instruction and support, which caters to the diverse needs and learning styles of students. Thirdly, the flipped classroom model provides opportunities for deeper learning and problem-solving.

 

The outcomes of implementing the flipped classroom model include improved student engagement and motivation, improved understanding and retention of the content, and differentiated instruction and personalized support. The flipped classroom model has significant implications for educational practices, challenging the traditional model of instruction, promoting critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and providing personalized instruction and support.

Outcomes

The authors of the selected article reported several positive outcomes of implementing the flipped classroom model. Firstly, they observed improved student engagement and motivation. Students were more actively involved in their learning, as they had greater control over the pace and style of their learning. They were also more motivated to come to class and participate in the in-class activities, as they had already been exposed to the content through the video lectures and were prepared for the class discussion and activities.

Secondly, the authors observed an improvement in students’ understanding and retention of the content. By providing video lectures for students to review at their own pace, they were able to better understand the material before coming to class. In-class activities and discussions then solidified their understanding and provided opportunities for them to apply their knowledge.

Thirdly, the flipped classroom model allowed for differentiated instruction and personalized support. Students were able to receive personalized feedback and support from the teacher, as well as peer-to-peer support during class activities. This personalized support allowed for a more tailored approach to learning, which catered to the diverse needs and learning styles of students.

Implications

The flipped classroom model has significant implications for educational practices. Firstly, it challenges the traditional model of instruction, which can be limiting in its ability to engage students and promote meaningful learning experiences. By providing students with greater control over their learning experience and facilitating collaborative learning activities, the flipped classroom model can improve student engagement and promote deeper learning.

Secondly, the flipped classroom model allows for personalized instruction and support, which is essential for catering to the diverse needs and learning styles of students. By providing opportunities for peer-to-peer support and personalized feedback from the teacher, the flipped classroom model can help ensure that each student receives the support they need to succeed.

Finally, the flipped classroom model promotes critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are essential for success in the 21st century workforce. By providing opportunities for students to apply their learning in real-world situations, the flipped classroom model can help prepare students for the challenges they will face in their future careers.

Lessons Learned and Critiques

While the flipped classroom model has its own set of challenges, it has garnered widespread attention for its potential to revolutionize the field of education. In fact, several studies have reported positive outcomes associated with the flipped classroom model. For instance, a study conducted by Bergmann and Sams (2012) found that the flipped classroom model led to a significant increase in student achievement, as well as improvements in student engagement and motivation. Similarly, a study by Lage, Platt, and Treglia (2000) found that the flipped classroom model was associated with higher student achievement in comparison to the traditional lecture-based model.

Moreover, the use of technology in the flipped classroom model has been shown to have a positive impact on student learning outcomes. According to a study by Hew and Lo (2018), the use of educational technology in the flipped classroom model has the potential to improve student learning outcomes, increase student engagement and motivation, and promote self-directed learning.

In conclusion, the flipped classroom model has emerged as a promising approach to education that challenges the traditional model of instruction. By providing students with greater control over their learning experience and promoting collaborative learning activities, the flipped classroom model can improve student engagement and promote deeper learning. Moreover, the use of technology in the flipped classroom model has been shown to have a positive impact on student learning outcomes. While the flipped classroom model is not without its challenges, its potential to improve student outcomes makes it a promising approach to education that should be further explored and implemented.

 

Resources:

  1. Bergmann, J., & Sams, A. (2012). Flip your classroom: Reach every student in every class every day. International Society for Technology in Education.
  2. Hauger, D., & McCord, R. (2021). The flipped classroom model: A review of its advantages and challenges. Journal of Educational Technology Development and Exchange (JETDE), 14(1), 1-14.
  3. Lage, M. J., Platt, G. J., & Treglia, M. (2000). Inverting the classroom: A gateway to creating an inclusive learning environment. The Journal of Economic Education, 31(1), 30-43.
  4. McLaughlin, J. E., Roth, M. T., Glatt, D. M., Gharkholonarehe, N., Davidson, C. A., Griffin, L. M., … & Mumper, R. J. (2014). The flipped classroom: A course redesign to foster learning and engagement in a health professions school. Academic Medicine, 89(2), 236-243.
  5. Tucker, B. (2012). The flipped classroom. Education Next, 12(1), 82-83.
  6. Zappe, S., Leicht, R., Messner, J., Litzinger, T., & Lee, H. W. (2009). “Flipping” the classroom to explore active learning in a large undergraduate course. Proceedings of the 2009 39th IEEE Frontiers in Education Conference, 1-6.