Blended Learning Example - Intermediate

Flipped Classroom Approach

A more recent method of blended learning that teachers have tried using is developing a flipped classroom. The teacher would use an online tool or blog and post videos of instruction that can be about a certain problem, issue or concept they want their students to tackle. The students at home have time and are given suggested resources to research and prepare. The following day rather than the teacher use class time to give instruction he allows the students to, discuss, problem solve and engage their challenge or task.

I think this is an excellent way to challenge and prepare students, and by providing them opportunities with online blended learning at home, they can learn at their own pace. Accommodating to students who have a Learning Disability or is are English Language Learners can benefit from this method of blended learning because the teacher can focus more time on answering any questions about the lesson and provide more individual support while other students are engaged on their tasks.

Personally I like this approach a lot but I am not sure if I would incorporate it for the whole year. Instead I would look to develop collaboration with groups using this format.

For instance – I would make a video about having my students look into Polar Bear problem in Churchill Manitoba (real life context) and provide them resources and video clips they need. Then assign groups and have them represent different communities or organizations in a city/region. Groups represent constituents such as tourists, tourists companies, local residents, environmentalist/scientist and first nations. The students can work together through Google hangouts for a short while to get organized with some ideas. The following day I would give class time to allow students to collaborate and prepare and use some periods for a role playing scenario of a city council. I would be the Mayor of Churchill Manitoba to facilitate the council meeting and students will have an opportunity to discuss issues and try and work together to find a resolution.

I think there is so much potential to this idea and I would love to try a task like this. What do you think?