The Pros and Cons of Flipped Classrooms

Finding ways to engage students is sometimes challenging. Technology can create a more engaging and collaborative environment. Flipped classrooms are one way to get students to interact more fully with the material. Here are a few advantages and disadvantages of this type of classroom. 

What Is a Flipped Classroom?

Flipped classrooms have lectures posted at home and activities during class. This involves free time for tasks with more critical thinking during the day.

Implementing this structure involves careful planning and determining outcomes for each lesson. You then need to figure out how to get the information to students. Recorded videos are great ways to engage with the current generation. The next day split the class into groups for a creative activity, such as making a presentation on the topic. Then have students discuss what they learned.

What Are the Benefits of a Flipped Classroom?

Changing how you design your lesson plan can motivate your students. Here are a few more benefits of flipped classrooms to consider.

You Have More Time to Dive Into New Topics

With a flipped classroom model, teachers spend less time introducing new topics. Instead, students learn these at home and have specific questions prepared. This allows you to explore a subject deeper and not spend time covering the basics.

So, plan activities that allow kids to apply what they have learned, such as creating a video based on the material. Going more in-depth also will ensure people do better on the quizzes and tests.

Students Learn How to Be More Independent

Independence is an essential trait for kids to learn. With flipped classrooms, they are responsible for understanding the information on their own. It allows them to process the data and develop critical thinking skills.

Students can also then work at their own pace. The one thing to consider is it’s essential to have support for those who don’t take the initiative. For example, one-on-one guidance could help.

You Can Develop More Creative Lesson Plans

Having engaging lesson plans kids enjoy helps improve retention and recall. Since they already have the basic information design activities that involve more creativity. You can use technology for more interactive projects or present real-world application scenarios. For example, you could have students create a blog.

Here are a few more fun activities to try:

• Entry/exit tickets

• Free writing session

• Case studies

• Think-pair-share

• Debates

Kids Who Are Absent Won’t Get Lost

For people absent, makeup is hard without proper instruction. If they are out for an extended period, they may begin to fall behind. With COVID-19 this is an essential factor to consider.

Flipped learning reduces the gaps by allowing students to independently catch up. Plus, then they don’t miss out on fun classroom activities.

What Are Some Things to Think About?

While this learning model has many advantages, it can create some challenges. Here are a few cons of flipped classrooms to consider.

It Can Create a Digital Divide

One of the things students will need is a computer and internet access. However, not all students, especially ones from low-income families, have this option. In fact, nine to 12 million U.S. students still lack adequate internet access at home. 

This may cause them to fall farther behind in their work. Therefore, get proper funding for resources and encourage computer sharing among classmates.

It Relies on Trust and Participation From the Students

There is a concern with flipped classrooms requiring a higher level of student trust. You must assume that students watch the videos or read the content at home. Although, some students may not be fully corporate.

This then leads to poor in-class discussions and the need to revisit concepts. Then you waste classroom time, and students may be less prepared for the exams. Have a discussion about the model with your undergraduates before making a decision.

There May Be More Work for Teachers

Having a flipped classroom requires more work upfront. You have to plan lessons and take several steps. For example, you need to upload lectures and introduce engaging supporting activities.

It also requires you to encourage students to be better prepared for class. Consider planning lessons a few weeks ahead to stay on track.

It May Not Be the Best Standardized Test-Prepping Model

You spend less time teaching core principles, which may appear on standardized tests. Therefore, kids may not be as prepared for these upcoming exams.

Although, states still require a portion of class time dedicated to this subject matter. When this is incorporated, it disrupts the flipped classroom structure. So, add standardized test prep within home lectures to keep students up to date.

Should You Have a Flipped Classrooms

With advanced technology, flipped classrooms are becoming a more popular suggestion. They can increase classroom efficiency and keep students engaged. Although, it is essential to consider issues like access to computers. Before making a choice, consider these pros and cons and discuss them with your students.