In the traditional classrooms that I was taught in and many classrooms still are, the teacher is at the center of learning. They are the fountain of knowledge that they are trying to pass on to the student. In today's digital era, the wealth knowledge goes beyond what any one person can possibly manage. As a result, students need to be able to manage not only data gathering but also collaboration and communication with peers, practice creativity and problem solving, and most importantly self-direction, motivation, and organization. The teachers role as repository of knowledge is lessened and becomes more like a coach. We know the master plan, the plays to run and the skills that need mastering
Enter the Flipped Classroom. On the most basic level the flipped
classroom is a model that turns the methodology upside-down (hence the
flipped name). It removes the teacher as the "sage on the stages" and creates an atmosphere for them to be the "guide on the side".
After a quarter and a half pilot last year, we are going to venture into a year long expedition into the Flipped Classroom. Many things were learned from that experience. I was very pleased with the results and student feedback was also very positive. As with any effort, there are numerous ideas and improvements that I am looking forward to this year.
