how flipped learning works

How flipped learning works in (and out of) the classroom

Flipped learning is more than just having students do homework during the school day. It’s more than just putting the onus on students to teach themselves. In fact, it’s neither of those things. Don’t be fooled by simple explanations of flipped classrooms that simplify a highly complex undertaking.

Flipped learning is a hot trend in most stages of education right now – and for good reason. It’s a way to really shake up the typical classroom and incorporate education technology in a positive way. The graphic below from Circulus dives into the benefits of flipping your classroom, homework, and learning in general.

See Also: 10 barriers to creating flipped classroom video content … and how to overcome them

Since some teachers are already incorporating the flipped model but many others are still unsure about the specifics, it might be a good time to research the basics. Educause has a fabulous walkthrough that includes the following definition:

The flipped classroom is a pedagogical model in which the typical lecture and homework elements of a course are reversed. Short video lectures are viewed by students at home before the class session, while in-class time is devoted to exercises, projects, or discussions.

The PDF (linked above) walks through the pros and cons of flipping so be sure to review it prior to getting started on your journey. Just my little bit of advice.

Flipped Learning Enables:

  • Student access to tools and technologies
  • Student engagement in rigorous content
  • Student immersion in diverse learning
  • Student collaboration with peers
  • Support for the learning process
  • Student access to immediate expert feedback

Flipped Learning in the Classroom:

  • Encourages student understanding
  • Enables differentiation
  • Ensures access to expert support
  • Enables student engagement
  • Creates a supportive learning environment
  • Provides opportunities for collaboration

Flipped Learning with Homework:

  • Encourages student accountability
  • Encourages purposeful homework
  • Provides a reason for learning content
  • Minimizes distractions
  • Engages and prepares students for learning

Written by Jeff Dunn



Jeff is an education and technology lover who has worked in far too many industries to count. Okay, like maybe 5 or 6. Jeff can indeed count that high but it’s not recommended. Jeff also likes to write bios in the third-person.

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