Flipped Classroom

 The concept of a flipped classroom has become increasingly popular over the last few years. Within a flipped classroom, students have the ability to engage in more useful discussions/activities with prior knowledge of a certain topic. For example, students in a flipped classroom would be required to read/watch materials before class meetings and come to class prepared to test their knowledge.

A Descriptive Image Comparing the Traditional Vs. Flipped Classroom

    Throughout my experience within middle and high school, most of it consisted of a traditional classroom setting. Many times, we would read a book in class and only be expected to do occasional homework outside of the class. Most of the coursework and materials required for us to learn, only happened in the classroom. However, as I have progressed through college, I have noticed more professors using the concept of a flipped classroom for their lessons. I have experienced this mostly in my English courses, which required me to read chapters or short stories before class so that we may use class time for an open discussion. This taught me not only discipline within my coursework, but also prepared my brain so that I am thinking about bigger ideas that I may share with the class. This tactic would also mean allowing students to take over in a way so that the teacher is there merely as support. Additionally, this concept may not be fit for everyday use or for certain ages. It is important that both the teacher and students come up with ways to design the classroom to fit their needs. Maybe, it is functional for some classes to use a flipped approach occasionally, giving the students various opportunities to change how the course is designed. Often, a flipped classroom can be a nice refreshment to allow students to feel in control. On the other hand, it may be too much for certain students to do all of the coursework outside of class depending on their ages, routines, and other responsibilities. Regardless of the way a classroom is set up, the only outcome that matters is that both the teacher and students are happy and thriving within their environment.