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8 Benefits of a Flipped Classroom

As teachers look for new ways to create engaging classes and embrace the opportunities made possible by technology, the flipped classroom is quickly emerging as an exciting new approach that promises multiple benefits for both teachers and students.  

Read on for 8 ways in which students and teachers can benefit from the flipped classroom model or visit the ViewSonic Education page for further classroom insights and EdTech solutions.  

In our previous explanation of the flipped classroom model, we defined it broadly as a simple reversal of the conventional teaching approach where class time (group learning) is followed by homework or assignments (individual learning). In the flipped classroom, students are first introduced to a new topic individually at home via online videos and supporting content, which is then followed by class time in which the students will apply their knowledge and delve deeper into the topic in the form of discussion, problem solving, and group work under the guidance of the teacher. What is notable about this new approach is its reliance on blended learning as well as the benefits experienced by those choosing to flip. 

Flipped classroom definitionFlipped Classroom Benefits for Teachers and Students  

When we talk about the benefits of a flipped-classroom approach, it is worth noting that these advantages can be felt by both teachers and students alike. In this section, we will break down eight of the most significant benefits associated with this teaching model, with four benefits for teachers and four benefits for their students. 

1. Teachers Spend Less Time Introducing New Topics 

As an investigation published by Montana State University points out, traditional teaching models allocate a large portion of time to the dissemination of information, which can often leave a very limited amount of time for deeper exploration and application of knowledge. In the flipped classroom, students receive introductory information through self-study prior to class, allowing teachers, who are experts in their fields, to spend less time covering the basics and more time exploring topics in far greater depth. 

2. Students Develop Independent Learning Skills 

Independent learning is undoubtedly a valuable skill for any learner to develop, especially within junior high and high school students. With the flipped classroom approach, students obtain the initial information independently, at home, often through video content. This enables them to get used to the process of self-study and allows them to learn at their own pace. However, teachers will need to be aware that not all students take to the concept of self-study equally and active steps will need to be taken to support those who struggle.  

3. Teachers Can Create More Engaging Lessons 

A variety of studies have demonstrated the importance of fun within education, as it can help to improve knowledge retention and recall. With the flipped classroom model, students attend each class with the basic information, meaning there is more time to inject a sense of fun and excitement into lessons. In particular, flipped classrooms allow more time to be dedicated to interactive learning, investigations, experimentation, and practical application. 

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4. Students Who Are Absent Do Not Fall Behind 

Absenteeism at a school level is common, yet the effect this can have is often overlooked. In fact, in the United States, more than eight million students miss close to a month of school over the course of the year, which will have a significant impact on learning outcomes. While the flipped classroom cannot fully counter the problem of absenteeism, it can help to reduce learning gaps as introductory information will always be available online for students to catch up on in their own time.  

Flipped Classroom Benefits for Students

5. Teachers Can Re-Use the Content They Create 

With the flipped classroom approach, teachers may opt to disseminate information via third-party content. However, many teachers instead create their own videos, making the initial learning experience more personalized. This has the added benefit of being able to optimize and re-use content, enabling teachers to spend less time on lesson preparation for basic information and more time on tailored lessons for deeper exploration.  

6. Students Are Able to Build a Deeper Understanding 

Another major benefit for students when learning in a flipped classroom is the ability to build a deeper understanding of the topic at hand through active learning. This contrasts with more passive learning experiences, such as lectures, because students are actively involved in the construction of the knowledge they acquire. In the process, they build a better understanding, with teachers coaching them along and helping them to expand upon their knowledge. 

7. Teachers Can Provide a More Tailored Approach 

As an article for eLearning Industry highlights, the flipped classroom model gives teachers the freedom to decide on the amount of time they spend on each student, based on their own individual needs. This is possible because classroom time is used to develop students’ understanding of the topic, making it easier to identify those who have fully grasped the information, those who may need additional guidance, and those who may need to revisit the basics.  

8. Students Find Classroom Time More Interesting 

Finally, one of the single biggest benefits of a flipped-classroom approach is the fact that it can help students to find their time in the classroom more interesting. This, in turn, can assist with student engagement, allowing students to become more emotionally invested in a subject while typically increasing overall class attendance too. This transpires because classroom time is spent on more meaningful discussions rather than simply listening to information.

Flipped Classroom Benefits For TeachersFinal Thoughts 

The flipped classroom model is gaining traction within schools, colleges, universities, and other academic environments; students take in information at home and then attend the classroom to put their knowledge into action. Crucially, the various benefits of a flipped-classroom approach extend not only to students but also to teachers. 

With students, this model can help them to develop independent learning skills, build a deeper comprehension of topics, and catch up more easily when they are absent. Meanwhile, for teachers, the approach allows them to make better use of their expertise and skills by spending less time lecturing and more time helping to develop students’ understanding. 

For more information on the flipped classroom and other styles of blended learning, read Blended Learning in Education 3.0. You can also visit the ViewSonic Education page for further classroom insights or myViewBoard Clips for access to over 2 million curated educational videos that come with pre-made, customizable lesson plans. 

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