While some pupils thrive in traditional lecture-based classroom environments that assign daily or weekly homework, many need hands-on work and real-time discussions to truly grasp information. One education model that incorporates the latter? A flipped classroom.
Simply put, it’s exactly what its name suggests: an arrangement where the type of work done at home and at school is “flipped”. Pupils learn and understand the content before going to school to apply and discuss it in a deeper way.
Here’s an expert breakdown of the flipped learning model — from the benefits and drawbacks of this style of learning to the age groups where it’s most often used.
What is a flipped classroom?
There are a number of ways to execute a flipped classroom, but at its core, it reverses the traditional approach to the lesson. At home, pupils may watch lectures or lessons, discuss topics with others or do research online. In the classroom, they apply what they learn in activities similar to traditional homework, all with support from a teacher. Active learning is the name of the game, with pupils reading at home and then participating in more hands-on exercises in class. The aim is to engage pupils and help them apply concepts by focusing on real-time problem solving together.
What ages are suitable for a flipped classroom?
The flipped classroom model is most often used at secondary school level, particularly for older year groups. It’s a model that mirrors approaches in higher education, too.
What are some examples of flipped classroom learning?
In a flipped classroom model, pupils need to come to class prepared to “go deep” with what they’re learning — this means work is necessary on the front-end. Here are some examples of what pupils may be asked to do at home, and then how they apply their base knowledge in the classroom.
Flipped classroom activities that may be done at home
- Completing preparatory reading.
- Viewing videos the teacher has created on YouTube or another platform.
- Listening to podcasts.
- Coming up with questions for class time.
- Answering polls or questionnaires the teacher has prepared.
- Collaborating with other pupils via forum, email or social media.
Flipped classroom activities that may be done in class
- Engaging in discussions, which may include things like Q&As, group investigations or debating.
- Participating in hands-on group projects.
- Practising “think aloud” problem-solving.
- Giving presentations.
- Playing games.
- Taking part in role-playing activities.
- Interacting through think-pair-share, by which pupils are asked to think about a question and then pair up with a peer to talk through their answers.
The benefits of a flipped classroom
No education model is one-size-fits-all, but there are a number of potential benefits to flipped classrooms for pupils, including:
Deeper understanding of material. There’s more time for teachers and pupils to work through a more complex understanding of how to apply educational content, rather than making sure new topics get covered in time. The work at home builds a foundation for more engaged learning with teachers by the pupils’ side.
Pace flexibility. Pupils can study at a speed that works for them.
Teachers can better see how pupils are progressing. The flipped learning approach can help teachers gain new insights into how the kids in their classes absorb information and where the sticking points are.
Increased engagement in the classroom and real-time feedback. In flipped education, interactive activities in real time can take centre stage during class, allowing teachers to provide feedback in the moment and exercises to evolve and adapt to pupils’ emerging needs.
Pupils develop independent learning skills. In addition to honing their individual learning style and abilities, the flipped classroom model prevents absence from holding children back, as they’re building a deeper understanding on their own terms.
Different learners can make the model work for them. Kids who tend to absorb material quickly and get bored in class can spend the time they need at home before moving onto other activities, while those who need more time to take things in can do this in the peace and comfort of their own time and surroundings.
The drawbacks of a flipped classroom
The flipped classroom model can allow pupils to take a deep dive into subjects, but potential drawbacks include:
Organisational (and motivational) skills are required. Flipped classrooms can require pupils to take charge of their timetable and independent learning obligations. If they’re unable to complete their preparation on time, they’re more likely to fall behind.
Teachers require more nuanced skills. This approach calls on teachers to draw upon different skills, methods and expertise to meet their pupils where they are in an agile and flexible way.
Disparities hinder learning. While phones and tablets seem ubiquitous lately, not every pupil has access to a device or internet at home, which can make this approach impossible. Post-pandemic, remote learning has become more of a norm, making it easier for kids to obtain devices from schools — but there’s only so much the institution can do. Difficult home environments can also make it tough for kids to find space and time to concentrate.
Delays in answers. Kids may find themselves getting stuck midway through the process of absorbing content if they can’t get clarification on a question from a teacher straight away.
Increased screen time. Since flipped classrooms require pupils to do substantial work on the front-end, they may wind up spending a lot of their time on their devices. Research has shown that excessive screen time can be harmful to kids developmentally.
Introverted pupils may have a hard time. No form of learning works for every personality, but in the case of flipped classrooms, kids with a more reserved approach to interpersonal communication may find it tougher, as interaction with others and sharing notes and ideas is part of the process.
The bottom line
Is a flipped classroom right for every child? No. But no single form of instruction or learning is right for every child. The flipped education model offers enough flexibility to serve a variety of different needs — on the part of the child or teacher. It’s important to remember that in education, flexibility is key.