The Flipped Classroom

As previously discussed, the Middle School Distance Learning Community schedule is more flexible than the other levels for several reasons. Most middle school teachers have gone to a flipped classroom learning model. What exactly is a flipped classroom? The following definition is found on the Flipped Learning Network website. 

Flipped Learning is a pedagogical approach in which direct instruction moves from the group learning space to the individual learning space, and the resulting group space is transformed into a dynamic, interactive learning environment where the educator guides students as they apply concepts and engage creatively in the subject matter. 

The site begins its article with a more simplistic definition of “school work at home and home work at school.” In our current situation, everything is at home, but in a flipped classroom the teacher assigns tasks or homework for students to do independently and uses class time to discuss, reteach, and enrich student learning.  

Flipped learning is based on four basic pillars: flexible environment; learning culture; intentional content; and professional educator. We have created a flexible schedule that allows students to work independently. Teachers provide recorded videos of themselves or others teaching a concept. They then offer office hours and live sessions for students to ask questions and get more individualized help. It is critical that your child engages in these live sessions and office hours for help. Our main goal for our students is for them to engage in the material and learn. We believe that if they engage in the tasks and class discussions, they will learn. This online learning environment is also making us better teachers as we must decide what is critical content that students should study and learn.  Finally, our teachers are professionals who know their content and are collaborating with other teachers in our school and in schools across the state as they engage in NCAIS cohorts. 

I know that the flipped classroom is new to many of us. If the survey results show that we need to adjust or change our schedule, we will do so. However, we will continue to utilize the Flipped Learning model as a proven instructional approach. They will continue to record lessons so that students can watch and re-watch them and will continue to hold office hours where students can get individualized attention and ask questions. Please have your students take advantage of those times where they can learn from their fellow classmates as well. 

I also wanted to make you aware some ideas that I have and may implement in the coming weeks to build community in middle school. We may be implementing a morning homeroom time for students to check in daily and have a devotional time and prayer with their classmates. Also, the Spring Banquet that was scheduled for late April will not take place as usual. I am contemplating a virtual Spring Banquet where small groups of seventh and eighth grade students, a faculty member and their guest would meet online to share a dinner time. Students would dress up and exercise good table and internet etiquette. More information will be coming on these items soon. 

For further reading on the Flipped Classroom, read HERE.

Sincerely,  

Scott Schroder