Flipped Classrooms

              Many teachers are experimenting with the idea of flipped classrooms. Studies show that this type of structure causes more help to the students than harm. I have mixed feelings about flipped instruction but exploring new methods are important, especially when they hold proof of being beneficial to students. Flipped instruction is basically the opposite of the traditional lecture style of teaching. The lecture portion is done outside of class and the activities and homework are completed in class.

              I have some concerns about flipped instruction but overall think it is a step in the right direction. Many educators assume that every student has access to technology outside of the school setting. While this is true for most students, there are still some without access. Having flipped instruction would make it difficult for these students to watch lectures or other videos and online readings outside of class. Also, students already spend a large chunk of their time in class and may be unwilling to watch lectures made by their teacher on top of that.

              On the other hand, the flipped classroom method has many benefits. In the traditional style, students’ number one complaint is homework. When students are left to work on their homework at home without any aid, they tend to become frustrated when they come to something they don’t understand, resulting in them giving up. In flipped instruction, the students are with the teacher when working on homework and can ask for assistance when they get stuck. This keeps students from becoming discouraged and helps the teachers get a better idea of what their students are not understanding. Teachers can also give immediate feedback to students and can reteach material if needed. This style of teaching also allows for more discussion in class. Students have more opportunities to ask questions and the teacher can ask more thought provoking questions to expand learning.

              As with any teaching method, flipped instruction has its pros and cons. With our advancement in technology, this method makes more sense than the traditional lecture style. Having students watch lectures outside of class at their own pace eliminates the one size fits all idea. Students learn better through activities than through lecture and incorporating technology outside of the classroom allows more time for activities. Flipped instruction is the step in the right direction of reevaluating old methods and forming better ways to advance and support student learning.