The Flipped Classroom

The flipped classroom is an instructional method that offers a blended type of learning. It takes the traditional way of instruction in the classroom and flips it to where instruction and lecture is done at home, and activities regarding the lecture can be done in class, instead of for homework. This method consists of blended instruction from online lectures, videos, and discussion boards with other classmates. I chose this topic on a whim, but it has made me understand more about the direction our teachers at Texas Wesleyan are gearing us towards. I've noticed that in a lot of my classes now, it is the expectation that you come prepared having already read the chapter or subject that will be discussed in class. This sort of instruction makes the student accountable and take ownership of their own learning. I see this as a good skill to instill in your students; but the con to this is that your students may not do what is instructed of them outside of the class, therefore they may miss out on critical information. Although it is their job to do this, you still want to make sure your students are learning the material. Some students may prefer a traditional face-to-face classroom setting. I would be one of those students. With a flipped classroom, the teacher is allotted more time directed towards higher cognitive activities and learning models. This is great in perspective, but also you have to think that not all students may have access to technology outside of school. This makes it difficult to know if the students will benefit from this method of instruction, or if it will cause more grief than good. I believe this method and use of technology is great, but for the right person. What are some ideas that could be offered to help a student who does not benefit from this type of learning? What are your own personal thoughts on your experience in the flipped classroom?