Currently I am an administrator but I recognize that our implementation of the blended platform has lacked the patience and methodical approach needed to get the instructors comfortable with the flipped approach. The idea of not having to flip the whole class immediately I believe is the best approach in socializing the team to embrace it. I would introduce it in such a way as to identify the best lesson and topics that could suite the flipped approach. In this way, both the students and instructor would have some time to ease into the change.
Brandi,
I am also wondering about this. I am gradually bringing more hands on activities into the classroom but, like you, I wonder whether my students are reading the material. The students seem scared of voicing their opinions when I have told them there are no right or wrong answers. I have maybe two or three students who are willing to give me their thoughts and everyone else is silent. I am trying to use more videos and case studies in the classroom but I would also love to have someone come in and provide some guidance.
I think students and faculty as well have to buy into the concept of a flipped classroom. Having an instructor who is more tech savvy is an added bonus.
To be a successful instructor in a flipped classroom there are a few things I would need. I would need support from my supervisor and the administration first and foremost. I would also need time to prepare. I would do a lot of research. I would start off slow though. Finally I would need more training on the technologies to use.
I think there are some great ideas with flipping the classroom. I have started utilizing some ideas, but im not quite sure if i am totally understanding the definition of "flipped."
Dr. Moody,
You have to keep in mind what you are teaching and how the information is being absorbed. It is possible you and the students may adapt at the same time.
Kanidrus
For me, a flipped classroom would be a dream. I am always looking for opportunities to enhance my teaching skills. The flipped classroom would allow me as an instructor to do more student-centered learning activities rather than lecturing. I am really excited about this concept and think it could be very effective in my own classes.
Philip,
I can certainly see that this adaptation would be an issue for you to overcome; however, it sounds as though you are thinking this through.
Dr. Moody Crews
Brandi,
I agree that student buy-in is an issue. Of course that's an issue with any teaching method. If they refuse to do the reading prior to class that is a decision that will have consequences that aren't so good for their grade or their learning. It actually sounds like you are on the right track. My suggestion would be to check with some of your state's professional organizations and see if anyone is presenting on the flipped classroom. That might help with your implementation.
Dr. Moody Crews
This would probably the biggest adaptation for me as well - creation of in-class projects that will facilitate the learning. Where I teach, the goal is to make the education process more project-focused as opposed to the typical assessments of quizzes and tests. One of the struggles I have had as an mathematics instructor was to find appropriate projects for all the majors of the students in my classroom (as I can have as many as 6 different programs in one class), fair for all students and their respective programs, and rigorous enough that it was worth the percent of the grade the project is supposed to encompass. The projects I have created have been out-of-class projects that are quite time-consuming to grade.
I truly believe in the power of the flipped classroom, however as I sit back and read the lesson, it sounds more motivational and informative of the benefits of the flipped classroom than how to effectively implement it. I can definitely see the benefits to how a flipped classroom would assist the student with their education. They become more self-directed, more independent and self-reliant, however I also see the student who will totally fall behind, because they refuse (or are too lackadaisical or indifferent) to complete the readings and observe the Ppt prior to class.
The question however asks how would I have to adapt in the classroom. I truly have no idea. I ask myself: Am I already doing this. Would this work in my classroom? Will it work for my students? I think I already use elements of the flipped classroom in my classroom, however, I still lecture (for atleast 30-45minutes). Although my lectures are more lecture/discussion, they are still lectures. I pose questions for students to analyze during the presentation to engage them while I impart the knowledge they should have read about the night before. I create activities to help instill the content, by using the vernacular of the class in everyday content, making students practice what we discuss and apply real-world applications in the classroom. But the prevailing question remains: Is it enough? Is it really a semi-flipped classroom? I think if I could trust my students to come to class having read the material then we could have a LOT more fun in the classroom. I could create even more hands-on activities to further instill the material in my student’s brains.
Yet, I also believe the very first step to having a flipped classroom is having help. As the course suggested, professional development is key. I would love for someone to come in and teach us how to fully implement the flipped classroom in our own classroom.
Earle,
Think about what those lessons might be. Letting go of control is difficult because we are comfortable with what we do and how we do it but we're not sure if the student will do it on their own.
Dr. Moody Crews
Jeffery,
Agreed. Think about how you might accomplish this awareness in these areas.
Dr. Moody Crews
Richard,
Sure. Teaching is one profession that is changing quickly. I would suggest asking your students what instructors they learn best from and why. Then talk with those instructors and even go and observe them to see how they're doing it. No matter how long we've been teaching, we can always learn new ways of doing what we do.
Dr. Moody Crews
Daniel,
I certainly understand. Teaching is a profession and it's not a quick fix to learn how to do it well. Just don't get caught up with the traditional way of teaching because things really are changing and will continue to do so. Good luck in your development.
Dr. Moody Crews
Neil,
Yes, presumably. After our students realize that this is the new reality, most will come through. Once you develop a tool box of projects to use you will be surprised how much learning does take place and how much easier your life will be as a teacher. You obviously know your content area or you wouldn't be teaching it so guiding your students in the activities will be easier and more rewarding than lecturing.
Dr. Moody Crews
Cynthia,
It sounds like you do have a good foundation already. Hopefully what you learn in the class will be another tool for you to use to continue on the road you're already on.
Dr. Moody Crews
Jason,
I certainly understand. However, is teaching about what we like or is best for us or is it about doing what is best for our students?
Dr. Moody Crews
Developing lessons that would demonstrate mastery and letting go of control of certain areas of content delivery.
Be well aware of the on line information and be aware of how the students are progressing and keep up with how this is working for all involved.
