In the traditional style of instruction, teachers present a lesson to students and then assign classwork or homework. The definition of a flipped classroom is the reverse of the traditional method.
Epic Edventures Academy uses the flipped classroom model. This consists of students completing direct instruction, such as a Study.com assignment, prior to their in-class discussion of the material. Since these assignments are short 5-8 minute animated video lessons, students are able to review them as many times as needed to help understand it. The intent is for students to see the material beforehand, also known as first-exposure learning, so they can learn the concepts at their own pace. By doing so, students are better able to focus on participating in class and receive feedback on their efforts during the lesson — not just afterwards.
Teachers that utilize a flipped classroom model are better able to help their students engage in active learning. Students become much more involved during the lesson discussion with the flipped classroom style of instruction by engaging in debates, small group discussions, or in-depth investigations. In essence, a flipped class switches the activities traditionally done in class with those completed after class.
In a flipped classroom, teachers serve more as facilitators, rather than traditional instructors lecturing to students. Educators act as guides, structuring class time and clearing up confusion with the material. Teachers are there simply as a resource to help students master the concepts in class and should be on the lookout for any students that appear to be struggling or falling behind.
Students take a much more active role in the flipped classroom model than in a traditional classroom. They develop a familiarity with the material via videos or other instructional materials that are made available outside of the classroom. This pre-work allows them to control their learning more, interact more with other students, and set the pace for discussion in class.
High school is where students can benefit the most from the flipped classroom model of learning. At this age, many students catch on quickly to the inclusive style of learning and active discussion with their peers and teacher. Plus, they have the opportunity to build skills that will serve them well in college and the working world.
In addition to increasing student/teacher interaction, flipped classrooms are linked to improved grades, test scores and overall student satisfaction. In a study that examined flipped classrooms in schools across the nation, 83% of teachers saw improved grades and attendance.
Although a flipped classroom has many benefits, there can be drawbacks to the approach, such as students who are unwilling to complete the preparation work for class, defeating the purpose of the flipped classroom model. This is where Classcraft is most effective. Students are not only rewarded Experience Points (XP) for completing their Study.com assignments, but earn extra XPs for completing them early. XPs is what students need to level up in our gamified class!