Flipped Classroom

Adopting the flipped classroom does not reduce teachers’ roles. Instead, it encourages student ownership and independence. Lecturers help fill gaps if students do not grasp material. This article explains this concept, answering concerns about home learning and covering its benefits, challenges, and steps for successful use.

What is the flipped classroom approach?

In a flipped classroom, students learn new material before class, often by watching videos or reading. Instead, they use class time for group discussions. They also solve problems and do hands-on activities. Some learners may not realise that this method is meant to help them. They might skip the pre-class work and then depend on classmates or the teacher to finish assignments in class.

​But does the flipped classroom really make a difference? A UK education foundation tested this model in about 24 schools. Students took devices home to access lessons and used class time to apply what they learnt. As a result, they made about a month’s extra progress in Maths compared to students in traditional classrooms. Even small gains like this show the method can have a real impact.

​The example above shows what the flipped classroom can achieve, but not every student will feel comfortable with this method. Some are used to traditional teaching, or they may need extra help to understand the material. It is important to consider if the whole class will benefit before using this approach.

Advantages and disadvantages of a flipped classroom

The flipped classroom approach has its pros and cons. Both of them need to be thoroughly considered before being implemented in the class. This model has gained momentum in the UK due to a massive shift from the traditional learning pattern. It works best only when students are motivated to learn on their own. They also need access to digital resources. The teachers will need to invest their time in this to make engaging learning materials.

This section highlights the pros and cons of the flipped classroom. Parents can use this information to understand schools that use this model. This knowledge allows them to support their child at home. Plus, they can give guidance if difficulties arise.

Advantages of a flipped classroom

Below are the advantages of this concept. They show how it helps those who are part of it. It also benefits those dedicated to following it.

• Active learning in the class: Students can use their time in the classroom simply to focus on the practical aspects of what they have learnt, rather than simply listening to lectures.
• Better student engagement: Those who come prepared in a flipped classroom tend to better engage with the teachers and make the sessions more interactive.
• Personalised support: Lecturers get an exact idea of what the learners are struggling with. They can spend more time helping those who struggle.
• Develop independent study skills: A flipped classroom encourages the learners to take ownership of their own preparation, which also improves their time management abilities and their self-discipline abilities despite the distractions.

Disadvantages of a flipped classroom

These are the drawbacks of the method. They will help determine whether it should be used, depending on the students’ learning style preferences.

• Digital divide: Not every student has reliable internet access and devices at home, which will end up creating a divide and inequality in the classroom.
• Requires student motivation: If the learners don’t take the pre-classroom materials seriously, then the whole purpose of the flipped classroom will be defeated, as they might struggle to participate and engage.
• More preparation for the teachers: This approach will eventually increase the workload for the teachers, as they will have to create quality learning materials.
• It is not suitable for every subject: Some topics, like creative writing or debate, might require and be more effective in class instructions than the pre-study method. Moreover, some students still prefer traditional lectures on certain subjects for better learning outcomes.
• Assessment and evaluation challenges: It is harder to track whether learners are benefiting from the flipped classroom model and whether or not they are engaging with the pre-class materials before the lesson.

How to implement a flipped classroom?

To implement a flipped classroom, you need proper planning, the use of correct technology, and a change in your current teaching style. However, teachers often think that giving some videos and asking the students to watch them at home means they have integrated this approach. Below are some key steps that will help you systematically introduce this method in your class:​

1. Plan the learning goals - Make sure you are clear about what you want the learners to achieve before and after the classes. You can then segregate the content accordingly.
2. Create the pre-class content - Start recording videos, reading materials, and different online resources that the students can read before coming to the class. This will make the flipped classroom more effective.
3. Ensure accessibility - Make sure every child has access to the materials. If not, you should provide different alternatives to those who don't have access.
4. Use the class time for active learning - Focus on problem-solving, case studies, and group activities that will make the entire concept of the flipped classroom more meaningful.
5. Monitor and support students - Track the engagement for the pre-class materials, offer extra help to those who struggle, and encourage more participation.
6. Get feedback and adapt- At the end of the session, ask the students how they found the flipped classroom method, and whether there is anything that needs to be changed to improve the overall learning outcomes.

The flipped classroom can boost students’ confidence. They gain a sense of achievement when they solve a problem or understand a chapter on their own. Teachers must plan and organise carefully to ensure every learner benefits fully.