What is a flipped classroom? And what are the pros and cons?

What is a flipped classroom?

A flipped classroom is a significant departure from the traditional educational approach where we go through theory together in class. Literally, a flipped classroom means: turning the classroom upside down. And that is exactly what it is. Other terms often used that mean the same thing include:

• Flipping the classroom
• Flip the classroom
• A flipped classroom

For simplicity, we will stick with "flipped classroom." Here is the definition:

A flipped classroom is a form of blended learning that strives for the most active learning environment possible. Students prepare for the lesson in their own time, allowing them to focus more on practical assignments during classroom or synchronous learning sessions. This makes the learning experience more engaging and interactive, leading to better results.

Not familiar with blended learning yet? Then it is a good idea to first read the following article on blended learning examples.

Ask yourself: how do you actually view classroom teaching? As a way to present course material? Or as a way to facilitate deeper understanding and application, as a supplement to the course material?

Over the past few years, attending in-person classes hasn't always been a given. They were often replaced by self-study or online lessons via Microsoft Teams or other applications. Of course, this isn't just a problem during a pandemic; it can also happen due to illness. Or what if your car won't start? Either way, it's frustrating to miss a class. Most students immediately feel like they are falling behind after missing just one session.

The reason for this is often that instructors tend to share the majority of information during their lessons. While it is usually possible to look back at the PowerPoint presentation, it is impossible to make sense of it without the context.

Wouldn't it be incredibly helpful if your students had already gone through the course material by the time they walked into your class?

This way, classroom time can be used for deeper exploration and application. Much more valuable, if you ask us! And this is exactly what a flipped classroom looks like.

The flipped classroom model

Technology is developing rapidly, which is driving changes in education. Traditional education was teacher-centered, but this concept is increasingly fading into the background. In modern education, the student is more often the focal point. The teaching method is being adapted to the student.

Every student has their own learning style, preferences, and frame of reference. The challenge of modern education is to ensure that learning is engaging and accessible to everyone.

The principle of the flipped classroom cleverly addresses the diversity of student preferences.

Students receive the course material in advance. This means you spend less time "lecturing" during class—a negative term students often use themselves. In a 60-minute class, you might spend 50 minutes talking. That leaves students with only 10 minutes to ask questions and actually engage interactively with the material.

If students come to class well-prepared, you as an instructor have more time to learn together. In a flipped classroom, creating an (inter)active learning environment is the top priority.

Flipped classroom benefits

1. Learning together

A major advantage of a flipped classroom is that it also flips the concept of homework. Students no longer have to struggle with homework on their own. They listen to the teacher at home and do the corresponding exercises in class, together with their classmates.

Often, classmates are available to ask questions or work together to find a solution. The teacher is present in the classroom to facilitate this process.

2. The student is in the driver's seat

In a flipped classroom, students take charge of their own learning.

Because lessons are made accessible online, students can prepare for class whenever they want. Some students often need a little more time to grasp the material than others. In a flipped classroom, this is not a problem!

When students go through the material at their own pace, there is no time limit. What you often see in a traditional classroom setting is that some students get bored, while others feel left behind.

Disadvantages of the flipped classroom

1. Motivation and commitment

You might see this one coming... When students are in the driver's seat, the responsibility also lies with them. It is their choice whether or not to prepare the material. If someone chooses not to do so, they will have little to contribute to the in-class exercises.

But wait, there is something you can do about this!

Research has shown that when people show more willingness toward e-learning, they also become more satisfied and motivated by the flipped classroom concept! The study notes the following about this.

"It is advisable to take measures to improve motivation for e-learning and self-directed learning skills. This will ensure greater satisfaction and motivation regarding the flipped classroom model."

It is therefore scientifically supported that you should focus on increasing motivation for e-learning among students! In addition, the term 'self-directed learning skills' is mentioned. This is the process in which students take initiative themselves, with or without help. This initiative can involve:

• Identifying one's own learning needs;
• Setting one's own learning goals;
• Choosing and applying the right learning strategies;
• Evaluating one's own learning outcomes.

2. Technology

To successfully implement a flipped classroom, there are certain requirements that a computer or phone must meet. This cost is not feasible for everyone. So, carefully consider whether you and your students are a good fit for this technical way of teaching.

3. Resistance

The flipped classroom concept can cause resistance. The traditional way of teaching is something many have become accustomed to. Many teachers and school boards may even be attached to this method.

From their side, resistance sometimes arises when modern methods, such as the flipped classroom, are introduced.

4. Time

Setting up a flipped classroom requires a significant time investment, especially at the start. After all, you need to find alternatives for any teaching materials that might not fit the flipped classroom concept. The best tip we can give you in this regard is to thoroughly research the right blended learning software. This software allows you to create a well-organized online hub for your course materials, making it easy for your students to navigate and use them.

Are you planning to start using the flipped classroom model?

We hope this blog has given you some food for thought. What are your views on the flipped classroom? If you are enthusiastic and would like to brainstorm about the possibilities of a flipped classroom for your situation, please feel free to contact us.