Managing In-Class Learning Experiences in Flipped Classrooms | Faculty Focus

Photo: Barbi Honeycutt

Barbi Honeycutt, owner of FLIP It Consulting in Raleigh, N.C. and an adjunct assistant professor at NC State University summarizes, "In this ongoing series focused on flipped and active-learning classrooms, we’re taking a deeper look into how to create successful learning experiences for students."

We’ve examined how to encourage students to complete pre-class work, how to hold students accountable for pre-class work, and how to connect pre-class work to in-class activities. Now let’s focus on the challenge of managing the in-person learning environment.

Photo: Faculty Focus

By design, flipped classrooms and active-learning environments are dynamic. There are so many moving pieces. Students might be working in pairs or groups. They are most likely moving through the course material at different paces. The classroom is noisier than usual because students are talking, interacting, and working on tasks together. Some students are looking up resources online, while others are reviewing their notes. A few students may be on their phones choosing not to participate. You are probably moving around the room as you try to speak with as many students as possible. You might rush from one group to another based on how many hands are raised. Several students may decide to walk up to you to ask their questions rather than wait for you to make it to their table. 

This “messy” type of learning environment can be challenging for both students and faculty. For some, it may seem too chaotic and disorganized, causing anxiety and frustration. For others, this is exactly the type of excitement and energy they need to learn and thrive.
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Source: Faculty Focus