What are some flipped classroom models that increase student engagement?

1 The Traditional Model

The traditional model is the simplest and most widely used flipped classroom model. In this model, students watch or read the instructor's lectures before class, and then use class time for practice, application, or problem-solving exercises. The instructor acts as a facilitator and a guide, rather than a transmitter of information. The traditional model is suitable for courses that have clear and sequential learning objectives, and that require students to apply or demonstrate their knowledge in various ways. The traditional model can increase student engagement by allowing them to learn at their own pace, ask questions, and receive immediate feedback.

2 The Discussion Model

The discussion model is a variation of the traditional model that focuses on creating opportunities for dialogue and debate among students and instructors. In this model, students still watch or read the lectures before class, but instead of doing exercises or quizzes, they participate in structured discussions that challenge their assumptions, perspectives, and arguments. The instructor designs the discussion questions, prompts, or scenarios, and moderates the conversations. The discussion model is suitable for courses that have complex and controversial topics, and that require students to develop their communication, critical thinking, and analytical skills. The discussion model can increase student engagement by encouraging them to express their opinions, listen to others, and justify their positions.

3 The Group Work Model

The group work model is another variation of the traditional model that emphasizes collaboration and peer learning among students. In this model, students still watch or read the lectures before class, but instead of doing individual exercises or discussions, they work in small groups on projects, tasks, or cases that require them to apply their knowledge and skills. The instructor assigns the groups, provides the instructions and rubrics, and monitors the progress and outcomes. The group work model is suitable for courses that have interdisciplinary and creative topics, and that require students to develop their teamwork, leadership, and innovation skills. The group work model can increase student engagement by enabling them to share their ideas, learn from each other, and produce meaningful results.

4 The Exploration Model

The exploration model is a more radical and flexible flipped classroom model that reverses the order of learning activities. In this model, students do not watch or read the lectures before class, but instead explore a topic or a problem on their own, using various resources and tools. Then, they use class time to present their findings, ask questions, or receive feedback from the instructor and peers. The instructor acts as a mentor and a coach, rather than a facilitator or a moderator. The exploration model is suitable for courses that have open-ended and inquiry-based topics, and that require students to develop their curiosity, research, and self-directed learning skills. The exploration model can increase student engagement by empowering them to choose their own learning paths, discover new information, and demonstrate their learning.

Flipped classrooms are not a one-size-fits-all solution for online learning. They require careful planning, design, and implementation to ensure that they meet the learning objectives and the needs of the students and instructors. By choosing the right flipped classroom model, you can create a more engaging, interactive, and effective online learning experience for your students.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?