Flipped Classroom Model – What is it?

Effective Instructional Methods by Nabin Timilsina

Part 2 - Flipped (Inverted) Classroom Model

An inverted (or flipped) classroom is a method of teaching that uses strategies that are unique and different from traditional teaching method. In this method of teaching, students have access to content in advance. They have the choice and flexibility to learn materials at their own pace before the class. Since students get exposed to the content ahead of time, it gives more time for teachers to work with them individually. It’s a blended learning design that uses technology to move lectures outside the classroom and uses learning activities to move practice with concepts inside the classroom (Strayer, 2012). This innovative pedagogical approach focuses on student-centered pedagogy. While there is no one model, the core idea is to flip the common instructional approach: With teacher-created videos and interactive lessons, instruction that used to occur in class is now accessed at home. Class becomes the place to work through problems, advance concepts, and engage in collaborative learning (Tucker, 2012).

Following are some of the advantages of a flipped classroom model –

1.     It promotes student-centered learning and increases student-teacher interaction.

2.     It increases student engagement and collaboration

3.     It gives an opportunity to the teacher to work with individual student.

4.     Students can view content materials as many times as possible. Thus, it allows them to learn at their own pace.

5.     It encourages the use of technology for teaching and learning.

6.     It makes it easier for differentiating instruction.

7.     It allows teachers to know their students better.

8.     It allows teachers to easily identify struggling students and provide support.

9.     It makes project-based learning easier.

10.  It gives students more control over their own learning.

11.  It increases parent involvement in their child’s learning.

Although flipped classroom model has its limitations, several studies indicate that its a very effective instructional method. There is an immediate need to shift our pedagogical approaches to meet the needs of 21st century learners, and a flipped classroom model is certainly one of the most effective tools to make that possible.

Thank you for reading it.

Reference - Strayer, J. F. (2012). How learning in an inverted classroom influences cooperation, innovation and task orientation. Learning Environment Research, 15(2), 171–193.