What are some successful flipped classroom models for sustainability insights?

The didactics for teaching are too complex to say what is right, wrong, good, or bad. For example, as there are various personalities and different ways of understanding, it is very important first to understand which audience we are targeting. However, the best model for sustainability is face-to-face with networking because there is no way to achieve sustainability without having experienced certain experiences that make you see the whole picture. So, the best model is one that focuses on face-to-face and uses live online as support in case of problems reaching a certain audience, and as a last resort and less utilized, recorded classes with offline activities.

A successful approach to flipping a classroom for sustainability insights is the blended model. Here, students use online learning materials to initially explore sustainability concepts independently. Later, in-person classes supplement these exercises with discussions, group activities, and reflective exercises. This model empowers students to engage the subject matter at their own pace before applying their learning in a collaborative setting. For instance, prior to a class on the effects of deforestation, students could review digital resources about the causes, impacts, and prevention of deforestation. Classroom sessions would then delve deeper using case studies, debates, and problem-solving tasks related to real-world issues.

Blended model is very useful in particular when there are so many online means of acquiring the knowledge. It is a quick way that students or learners opt online models to learn the new skills in sustainability, gain the minimum knowledge before going into face to face training programs or workshops to enhance their skill set to elevated level. Blended model also facility learners a flexibility to earn the knowledge and skill as per their own pace and interest level. Of course the face to face learning opportunities are limited in comparison with online opportunities. All in all blended model is a successful tool in acquiring and establishing news skills and knowledge.

In this model, instructors provide learning materials online ahead of scheduled classroom time. Students are responsible for understanding the core concepts, and classroom time is devoted to exploratory and application activities such as discussions and critical thinking exercises. For example, prior to a session on corporate sustainability practices, students could review resources on sustainability reporting, CSR, and green operations. During the in-person or virtual class, students would engage their peers in discussions, ideation, and critique of corporate sustainability case studies.

The peer model is very interesting and full of learning opportunities. There may be professionals and peers from different segments, they may be working in different dimensions of sustainability while comparing with each other. So in this model there is a lot to learn from each other experiences, learning from expected projects in different zones. This model involves multiple skills such as collaboration, fostering, communication, idea exploration etc.

This model thrives on engaging students in solving real-world sustainability problems. Online, students are introduced to sustainability concepts and subsequently, classroom time is focused on analyses and problem-solving sessions. For example, students might explore topics around sustainable agriculture practices online. Later in the face-to-face session, students would work collectively on issues such as improving crop yield with minimal environmental impact. This active learning can make sustainability concepts more tangible and meaningful.

Indeed, a large portion of the population has competitiveness as a cultural concept, with each person at their own level. Therefore, using gamification techniques to develop sustainability skills and teaching can be an important ally in reinforcing and sensitizing students. However, it is crucial to understand that being sustainable does not entail having someone at the top but rather everyone contributing to reaching that point! It's about acting as a network! If gamification focuses on a single winner, the method itself is contradicting the basic concept of sustainable development.

This innovative method uses online and offline games to teach sustainability concepts. Online educational games can introduce and reinforce sustainability knowledge. Class time then allows for discussions on game experiences, relating them to real-world applications, and exploring the subject matter more extensively. For instance, an online game could simulate the management of resources in a city aiming for zero carbon emissions. Classroom sessions could then involve discussing their strategies, reflecting on the outcomes, and correlating their in-game decisions with real-life sustainability governance.

En mi experiencia, dentro de las organizaciones lo que más funciona es en capacitación y desarrollo: Gamificar los programas de capacitación para hacerlos más interactivos y atractivos, lo que puede resultar en un mayor compromiso y retención del aprendizaje.

Flipped classroom models can be effective in delivering sustainability insights by promoting active learning, critical thinking, and the application of knowledge.

Remember, a flipped classroom model works best if the content is engaging and enhances students' understanding of sustainability concepts. Technology can play an instrumental role; leverage digital platforms to make content visually appealing and interactive. Regular feedback is crucial too since it allows you to understand if the model is effective and tweak it as needed. Additionally, actively involve students by incorporating participatory exercises, discussions, and presentations in your classroom sessions. The key to success is aligning the model with the learning objectives to ensure the most impactful insight into sustainability is delivered.