Remember what a relief it was when your teacher allowed you to use class time to do your homework? It was especially helpful if you were struggling to master a math skill. At the St. Paul's School for Girls (SPSG), the math department studied the problem of Algebra homework and embraced a new concept: flipped learning.
The concept is really quite logical, and thanks to today's technology it works. Dawn Adams, chair of the SPSG Math Department uses flipped learning to teach Algebra I and II by taping math lessons, which are delivered to students via video. Students view the videos on their computers at home as homework. Then, they spend class time doing active problem solving.
"The goal of a flipped class is to utilize technology to move traditional lectures to an electronic media for the purpose of opening time in class for greater collaboration, problem solving, and critical thinking," says Adams.
The theory is that students respond to flipping because they are learning in a medium that is second nature to them while receiving personal attention and support in class from both their teacher and their peers. Furthermore, they are not sitting and practicing problems in isolation, but working on problems together in a classroom with their teacher. They are able to practice critical thinking skills not possible when working alone at home.
Another benefit of flipped learning for students is they can watch the videos when they want, wherever they want, and as often as they want. They take notes on the video lesson and share information the next day in class, where they ask questions, practice problems, interact with the teacher, and collaborate with their classmates.
Originating in Colorado, the brainchild of two science teachers, flipped learning is spreading into classrooms across the country. Teachers are embracing the concept in middle schools and high schools, and for all types of classes including English and world language classes.
Adams recently welcomed educators from Towson University and Friends School for the first World Flipped Classroom Open House, to demonstrate a flipped lesson with 10thgrade Algebra I students. SPSG was the only local school participating in the nationwide Flipped Classroom Open House.
"By participating in flipped learning, my students learn that they are in a community learning environment, not just learning from an authoritative teacher lecturing to them," says Adams. "My goal is for them to be the best learners possible, and to truly understand the content in our class."
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