Flipped Classroom Discussion-Why should we do it?

 

    I have heard of flipped classrooms before, but did not really think they would really work for me; however, now that "Rona" has forced us to redefine the way we view education and rethink our lesson delivery, I am thinking now that I want to give it a try. Using a flipped classroom style may be the answer I have been looking for--a way to connect my F2F students and my virtual students in a truly collaborative manner. By recording my lectures ahead of time, I can play them in my class, then walk around the room and help my students with the pieces they need extra time with. Furthermore, I can have a couple of my more responsible students log into the Google meet so they can interact with my virtual students, answering questions, or helping them get the attention they need by asking those questions for them. I am figuring out that my students WANT to help each other, and this may be a great way for them to engage. 

       I think this type of PL needs to be modeled because this type of learning model can be very intimidating to those who have never seen it before. For example, before watching the videos, I never would have considered trying a flipped classroom. I did not think that I could do it, given my subject area. However, watching the videos on flipped classrooms has inspired me to search out more FC videos and try this style in my classroom this next week! As a future digital specialist or assistant principal in charge of digital learning, it is important that I  take these types of risks in my classroom, so that I know exactly what I will be asking of my teachers. 

Grace and Patience!

 As I think about the start of this year, I think about what a crazy time we are living in!  If we are not comfortable being uncomfortable, then wHe might as well just quit our jobs right now and go work at Walmart, HEB, or McDonalds! We are all navigating through uncharted waters with virtual, face-to-face, and blended learning, all while wearing a smile under our facemasks.  We have been in school for three weeks now, and the rules have changed no less than seven times.  I KNOW I have made many mistakes already, but the key for me is to own those mistakes and ask my students for forgiveness, grace, and patience.  I want them to know that I am ok with them making mistakes, just as my principal is ok with me making mistakes. I want them to take risks with their learning and let me know what they want to learn about. I think is incredibly important for our students to know that we are learning right beside them, as we all navigate this school year, and we are ALL going to get through it together.  Whether they realize it or not, I am helping them develop a growth mindset, which will help them for the rest of their lives.