If you're not sure what "flipping" a classroom is, check out this description from the Web 2.0 Classroom blog.
What is flipping? In is simplest form, flipping is the idea that instead of the teaching of basic skills in the classroom, those skills are acquired outside the classroom, mostly through the form of videos. Then this allows for more depth, remediation, and/or extension in the classroom. It is becoming very popular in math classrooms because of the ease of access to content through sites like Khan Academy and others. But there are other classrooms like science and social studies where teachers are trying the flip.We've had one class, so far, and I enjoyed it thoroughly. And it wasn't just because I will listen to anyone with an Australian accent speak for days straight with no complaint.
What I found to be a relief is that these two fellas discussed flipping lessons--not whole classrooms and not entire units. One of the videos they shared presented the idea of starting off small, without flipping a whole class in one fell swoop. It's possible I'm late to the discussion, but I had not heard anyone speak of just flipping lessons. I had heard about flipping classrooms and flipping units, but not just lessons.
This concept of flipping one lesson instead of a whole unit or class will make it easier to sell to teachers who we call "technology immigrants," (or, did I read somewhere that we shouldn't call them that anymore?) since they can try flipping one lesson, take some reflection time and consider how to improve or refine their flipping process, and then try again with a concept they feel comfortable teaching. I love it when I see teachers trying to get out of their comfort zones in the area of classroom technologies. I hope to be part of encouraging that one day.
We also discussed accessibility issues--primarily that there are still too many students who do not have a computer at home and some who do not have the internet. It can be a bit frustrating for teachers who wish to create a flipped classroom but this is exactly why flipping lessons can be so beneficial.
Imagine your classroom; maybe most of your students do have a computer with internet at home. However, if just 5% of your students don't have access to a computer with internet, those students would be at a disadvantage since they would not be able to go home and watch your lectures every night. Sure, there are local libraries, but I know I have students who are babysitters for their siblings every night.
Flipping a lesson, as opposed to a whole class, would make this easier; if students in your room were given a week to watch a lecture or other video you want to share with them, they would be more likely to find access to internet at some point during the week. On top of that, you can offer any extra classroom computers during lunch or other free time for students to use to watch consume your content. Over the course of the week, students who have many opportunities to complete the assignment will do so. But wait, there's more: If students have access to smart devices, or have friends who will lend them a smart device for a moment, most of these videos can be viewed on such devices. And, for the sake of accessibility, teachers can create videos that are compatible with various devices.
Still not convinced? Let's say those students do not consume your content. What now?
The idea is that the classroom time will not usually be a boring test, but an engaging discussion, activity, or project. One that students would be disappointed to miss. Instead of participating, students will use class time to view the video and would either complete an alternative assignment or come late to the learning party.
I'm game. Let's do this! I look forward to our next meeting, which is next week.
Until then...
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