Flipped Virtual Classrooms
We at EdConnective understand that this is a challenging time for both teachers and students, and we are all learning how to support each other while maintaining learning through a virtual approach. These best practices came from several years of my experience implementing a flipped classroom in my middle school Pre-Algebra, Algebra and Algebra 2 classroom. This approach and tips can be applied to a virtual approach and any subject area.
What is a flipped classroom?
A recorded lesson for students view the lesson and take notes. (Tips on how to record a video are below)
Students are able to pause the video, rewind, write down questions they may have or have a parent watch to support their learning.
Guided questions are presented in the recorded lesson and students are asked to pause the video to complete; then when ready, they unpause the video to go over answers
Students meet virtually in Zoom (or the video conferencing app of your choice) for active learning such as to discuss the lesson, work on independent problems, or provide lesson extensions
The time spent with the teacher is used for active learning instead of delivering the lesson and content.
How to create a Flipped Classroom Virtually:
Create a central resource repository, a one-stop-shop for all information. I found a google doc linked to each resource to be particularly easy to maintain and students to quickly see all components.
Set up virtual office hours for students to stop in and ask questions. Zoom is our favorite resource for the ability to record sessions, allow large number of attendees and students can raise their hand to answer discussion questions. For more information, view Zoom for Virtual Classrooms
Use structured notes that students complete as they listen. Cornell style notes are particularly helpful for keeping students engaged while allowing them space to expand on ideas and the content.
Provide completed notes and answer keys when possible for students.
Creating the videos:
Video Example: Combining Like Terms
Don’t let a lack of resources stop you from making a video, all you need is a webcam, handheld whiteboard, and a smile.
Explain Everything is my favorite tool for creating these lessons. According to their site you can record everything to create explanations, media-rich presentations, provide feedback, follow-ups, and meeting takeaways. Share them as videos in no time.
Connect with your students. This is especially important during this crisis. Start the lesson by sharing a book you are reading, introducing your pet, or sharing something we are grateful for during these times. Students are more likely to show up if they still feel a connection to their teacher
Make it FUN- my favorite way to engage students in the lessons was to purposely make a mistake in my math, and any student who caught it and emailed it to me with an explanation of why it was wrong and the correct answer was entered to win a prize. I also embedded silly words in my videos for students to discover, many would watch them 2 or 3 times to try and discover them!
Allow students to create their own videos to share with others.