Those Flipping Classes!

As I'm learning more of what it means to become an educator, I'm finding that the best in this field are ones that constantly seek ways to ensure their students "get it".  I'm learning a lot about ways to engage students but it's always in regard to learning the content.  There's not much about grades or assignments, which is a pleasant surprise in my studies.

One method that promotes this emphasis on learning the content over anything else is flipping the classroom.  No, not having students come in and flip classroom furniture around, which I'm sure makes school administrators and parents cringe at the very mental image of that.  A flipped classroom is a class where most (or all) of the learning is done outside of class.  How can that be when teachers are supposed to be the instructors in the classroom??  Let me explain.
What the flip is flipping??

A flipped classroom is described best as "The instructional part of the learning moves outside the classroom....the clock at home gets used on instruction, on piquing curiosity, on initial exploration. When the classroom clock starts ticking, teachers spend their time interacting with students on activities that they used to assign as homework."  This quote comes from the article Flipping Your EL Classroom: A Primer.  I would recommend taking a look if you find this interesting.  Basically, students do their exploration and are introduced to new topics at home then bring their homework to class to go over with their instructors and fellow classmates.

Methods of Flipping

How does learning happen at home if there's no instructor there?  Technology.  Students are introduced to concepts via video presentation (either pre-existing online or created by their instructor), online interactive platform or traditional textbook.  They are able to watch the video and explore at their own pace, allowing for learning at their own speed.  Then, when they come into class, students are able to share what they've learned and allow the instructor really hone in areas that need improvement or where comprehension is lacking.

Perks of Flipping

A few quick benefits of flipping: first, comprehension seems to skyrocket.  Using videos in learning is great in that they allow students to learn from visuals and see the content.  Utilizing the right videos can make or break this concept of flipping.  However, when it's done right, it should work really well.  Also, allow students to learn at their own pace can help ensure that they understand the content.  Secondly, interaction increases in the classroom since students now have their interest piqued, questions regarding content and all have some background on the subject matter.  Finally, critical thinking skills are increased as students are engaged on a cognitive level.  You can read more about the perks of flipping classrooms here.