What is Flipped Learning?

In this article, we will discuss some definitions of flipped learning.

What is Flipped Learning?

Flipped learning is a pedagogical approach, and a form of blended learning, that “flips” the common or traditional instructional approach of classroom-based lectures and instruction, to integrate online interactive lessons that can be accessed prior to the class and in a student’s own time, into the overall approach.

Using technology, learners are introduced to content materials, including the lecture and other instructional resources before class (asynchronously), allowing the classroom time to:

• inquire about lecture content;
• work through problems, activities, and advanced concepts;
• test skills in applying knowledge; and
• engage in collaborative learning.

The classroom learning happens in real-time, with both the teacher and student(s) in the same place and at the same time (synchronously).

It is argued that the flipped learning approach fosters in-depth and active learning (Hamdan, McKnight, McKnight, & Arfstrom, 2013) as learners are taking an active role in the knowledge internalisation process, relating new knowledge to prior knowledge rather than passively receiving information (Prince, 2004).

This approach challenges educators to shift the emphasis from a teacher-centered approach of providing content to a student-centered approach of designing active learning experiences, facilitating in-class activities, and scaffolding out-of-class preparation (Thompson & Xiu, 2020).

To learn more about flipped learning and student centered learning, read the following article:

McCarthy, J. (2016). Reflections on a flipped classroom in first-year higher education. Issues in Educational Research, 26 (2).