Tips for Success in a Flipped Classroom
Learn How to Make the Most of a Flipped Classroom Experience
By Kaitlyn, IvyWise Master Tutor
The flipped classroom model is gaining popularity as schools continue to adapt to the changes brought on by the ongoing pandemic. In a flipped classroom, the instruction doesn’t take place in class. Instead, class time is spent answering questions and discussing topics, with videos and note taking reserved for homework.
Given the alternative structure of this learning model, many students are bound to have questions when it comes to making the most of it. Keep reading to learn more about flipped classrooms and our tips for enhancing your learning experience.
Adjust Your Study Habits Accordingly
Think about how you currently do homework. Do you have music on? Is the TV on? Are you flipping between your work and social media? Are you engaged in a group text? In order for flipped classroom to be successful for you, you will need to eliminate these distractions. You should find a quiet place to watch the video and take notes. Try to emulate the habits you have when are you taking notes in class
Change Your Expectations
Most students expect to end the instructional part of a lesson in school with all of their questions answered. When you are taking notes in class, you can ask your questions in the moment and have your teacher clarify a point in real-time. With a flipped classroom, you will be watching the instructional videos at home without any interaction with your teacher.
You most likely will not fully understand the whole lesson after watching the video and will definitely have unanswered questions. But, that is okay! Your teacher is not expecting you to come to class an expert on the material covered in the video. They are hoping that you understood some of the material and that you will bring your questions to class for further discussion. You need to become comfortable not feeling 100% confident with the material when entering class.
Don’t Overlook the Importance of Questions
Writing clear questions will not only help your teacher get a picture of how well you understood the lesson, but it will also help you better understand where you are struggling as a learner. There will be a gap in time from when you wrote the question and when you will get to ask it, so the more specific you can be, the better it will be for your own understanding. You will build your metacognitive skills through this process, which is a major benefit, given that they are linked with greater academic success.
Be Proactive
You need to take initiative. If you watched the video that you’re assigned for a topic and you had a hard time understanding it, find a different video to watch. The internet is full of instructional videos. Every person learns differently, so perhaps the video that your teacher assigned just isn’t working for you. Try to find a similar one online that you could watch. As stated above, it is okay that you are not an expert in the material covered in the video, but you do need to enter class with some understanding of the material.
Speak Up
Finally, be an advocate for yourself. If you have given yourself time to adjust and flipped classroom still isn’t working for you, let your teacher know. Your teacher might have some more tips specific for your class that will help you be more successful. Plus, providing feedback to your teacher helps them grow as well.
While a flipped classroom model can feel like a transition at first, it’s an excellent opportunity to expand and adapt your skillset. If you’re currently in a flipped classroom and looking for additional guidance, get in touch with our team of expert tutors for support.
