The 8th grade Algebra class will be a “modified-flipped” classroom. Students will receive direct instruction as well as experience a “flipped” classroom. Flipping a classroom consists of switching the traditional lecture and homework routine. Portions of the instruction are completed outside of school through the use of technology and videos of the concepts. This class will be using videos and practice problems on Khan Academy as well as from their online textbook. One major advantage of “flipping the classroom” is that there will be more time in class for me to work directly with the students. I will be able to answer questions on the problems assigned and the students will have immediate feedback on the problems they are solving.
The first couple weeks were spent introducing the students to their online textbooks and Khan Academy. The students did an excellent job at trouble shooting their computer problems. Computer trouble can be encountered at all times of day and they are becoming better each day at working through their technology issues.
The challenge is to teach students the new way of learning. They are accustomed to having the information delivered to them during class and taking as long as they need to do their homework. I have noticed that their notes are far better when taking them at night. When the students take notes in class, they are often rushing to keep up with the teacher. Taking the notes at night allow the students to watch the information at their own pace or to re-watch a video if needed to understand the concept.
In addition, I have found that their work in class is better quality because the student has immediate assistance and can ask questions as they work. The students have been focused and on task each day when completing daily assignments in class. I am looking forward to continuing the Khan videos and observing the results.
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