What is Flipped Classroom Methodology?
The flipped classroom methodology of learning has shown us that technology will never remove the need for classroom-based learning. Instead, it will help it to evolve in exciting new ways. Here, we show you some practical ways that GoConqr can help support changes in the classroom.
The flipped classroom methodology is a form of blended learning that focuses on getting students to engage more with their learning material. While the standard classroom learning model sees information being transferred from the teacher to the students, the flipped classroom methodology uses educational technology to give students information outside of class time through tools such as videos, slides and notes. Class time is then spent discussing the information, offering guidance, addressing key issues or dealing with any points of difficulty that students may have.
How is it Effective?
Educators who’ve used the flipped classroom methodology believe that it supports active rather than passive learning as students are afforded the time they need to process information before they enter the classroom. They are then given the chance to deepen their understanding of what they’ve learned in a workshop-style environment that emphasizes discussion, cooperation among peers, independent thinking and idea generation.
While the standard learning model uses more time engaging lower cognitive functions such as receiving information and understanding it, the flipped classroom methodology approach allows educators to spend more time on higher cognitive applications such as analysis, evaluation and application.
Because technology is already a major feature in most of our lives, GoConqr’s tools are particularly well placed to play an active role in enabling a more fluid, user-centered learning style for teachers and students alike. Here are some reasons why:
- GoConqr gives students more control over where and when they learn
- Teachers and students can create, use and share a variety of content types
- Users can build online learning communities to discuss and share ideas
Implementing the Flipped Classroom Methodology
There’s little doubt that flipped classes require a fresh approach when it comes to preparing lessons. Since student engagement is crucial, the content that teachers put together must be well-planned and high quality. Luckily, there are lots of technological resources at teachers’ disposal, thereby affording them greater scope for experimenting and customizing content to a user’s particular needs.
This is exactly the kind of flexibility that the GoConqr platform provides to both teachers and students alike. For instance, teachers can easily create Notes, Slides, Flashcards or Mind Maps to introduce topics in a clear and compelling way. Students can also use GoConqr to develop their understanding by creating their own resources, which they can then share online with friends using GoConqr Groups. Indeed, by offering a wealth of learning tools in one place, users need no longer waste time searching for tools from a multitude of sources. All they have to do is log in and start creating.
To help get the most out of their creations, however, educators should also bear in vital mind questions such as:
- What is the goal of the lesson?
- What should the students learn?
- What are the key concepts to discuss?
- Does the resource provide the right kind of information?
To learn a little more and see some samples, simply click on the slide set we created below.
Even so, successfully ensuring that students arrive in class well prepared may still remain a concern for some educators, and it is a valid one.
Helping Students Prepare
Finding a solution to this issue is certainly not easy, since every student and classroom is different. With that said, there are some educational methodologies that clearly convey the importance of pre- and post-class learning to students. For instance, GoConqr allows users to create quizzes that they can use at the beginning or end a of class as a way of assessing what students have learned and where their needs lie. These can be shared via Groups and taken online, meaning teachers can get immediate feedback beyond the classroom environment.
Of course the long-term solution lies in creating a stimulating classroom environment that uses technology as support. The flipped classroom methodology approach suggests that once students begin to appreciate the freedom of a more openly collaborative space in which original thinking is valued, they will be more motivated to take control and invest their time in out-of-class learning. With GoConqr, students are given access to the tools and content they need to make the most of their learning.
By each playing their part in the flipped classroom methodology, teachers and students can together make learning responsive rather than didactic, dynamic rather than static. At GoConqr, we believe that learning should evolve because learner’s needs do too.
GoConqr for Institutions
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