In the article, “Flipping the Classroom and Finding Balance,” the author explains the art of the “flip model” which has students review lessons at home and do their homework while in the classroom. Caroline D. Haebig, a teacher and author of this article also provides insight to why the flip model is so intriguing to teachers. She states, “There are many reasons districts and teachers may find it attractive to flip the way we are doing school. It can allow students to collaborate more closely with each other and their teachers, provide time for creative, hands-on activities and engaging discourse.” Although, the flip model has proven to be successful it can still pose some challenges. For example, depending on how the students are as learners can really influence if the flip model is successful or not. Haebig explains that the kids must be able to fully grasp what the flip model is and how they must utilize it to its fullest. Not only does the flip model help students become more active in their learning, Haebig explains that by having students review lectures at home it also familiarizes them with new technology.
Prior to reading this article, I never heard of the flip model. While I think it is an interesting point of view on teaching, it worries me that a majority of students wouldn’t get the most out of the lectures, simply because they wouldn’t know what to focus on or they wouldn’t review them. I did, however, like that Haebig points out that this model may pose a challenge yet she believes that it will challenge a students learning techniques which may improve their learning abilities. “We must strive to help students to adapt and make the most of this new way of teaching and learning. As teachers are challenged to revisit the process in which they teach their content, we must also provide students with the support they need in order to maximize their learning.” Overall, Haebig stresses that students and teachers must find a balance in teaching and learning techniques and I completely agree. What is right for one student may not be right for another.
This article relates to NETS number three “Research and Information Fluency.” Through the flip model, students “locate, organize, analyze, evaluate, synthesize, and ethically use information” from the lecture provided by teachers. Using the flip method, students must also evaluate and select important information from the lecture in order to participate in class homework assignments and quizzes. They possess independent studies to process and report results. I think this NETS standard is extremely important in the classroom.
Haebig, C. (2012). Flipping the Classroom and Finding a Balance, 39 (4).
Flipping classrooms have becoming popular, especially in high schools. I'm glad that Haebig (2012) discusses both the advantages and some limitations/challenges. This way, we have a chance to reflect on both the pros and cons of this application of technology in education. I think the flipping will have a great influence on the role of teachers and students. Flipping will change the dynamics in the classroom. Both teachers and students need to learn and create the new classroom culture.
ReplyDeleteR-J
Interesting idea, but I'm not a big fan because I think there are too many limitations. Heather I agree with you saying that "a majority of students wouldn’t get the most out of the lectures, simply because they wouldn’t know what to focus on or they wouldn’t review them." I just don't think there's enough structure in lecturing when you "flip" a classroom. I would maybe utilize this approach every once in a while, but I think it's too new and questionable to be relied upon frequently.
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