• The flipped classroom is one of the most exciting advancements in modern international education. It was first proposed by Bergmann and Sams (2012).

• It hinges on the the idea that students learn more effectively by independently studying concepts at home using video resources. Class time is then used to reflect on what they have learnt and to do exercises and applications.

• By flipping the classroom, the move is away from the traditional "sit and listen" approach to a "do and learn" approach.

Benefits of flipping the class:

• Learners can take ownership of their learning. Through laptops and mobile phones, they now have more freedom over how, when and where they learn. In today’s times, technology is an integral part of the way learners acquire knowledge.

• Learners can now engage with and master concepts at any time since learning is not restricted to class time only. They can pause and rewind videos at any time thus ensuring that all examples and exercises are fully understood.

• By watching videos, learners will already be familiar with content before classes. When the class begins, they can spend their time collaborating with their teacher and peers to solidify their understanding either individually or in small groups.

• Allows for effective differentiated learning. Advanced learners can move ahead with the syllabus and start working on extension assignments and solving higher level problems. Learners who struggle can receive more individual attention from their teacher. • Rushing to complete the syllabus is prevented since some content can be independently studied by learners using on line tasks. Allocating marks to these tasks will force learners to be more serious about them.

• Teachers can spot knowledge gaps early rather than waiting for tests to see what the learners understand.

• Schools using this approach have reported marked improvement in results. More learners can now achieve better results due to having repeated opportunities to master the content.

Steps for implementing the flipped classroom:

• There first needs to be a buy in from learners, teachers and parents. Communicating the value of flipping the classroom is essential. It is a step ahead of the traditional method.

• Online video resources need to be curated. Mindbourne videos are ideal for this since all content in the textbooks is linked to online video lessons. Visit www.mindbourne.com.

• Training in how to use video technology is critical, otherwise flipping the class will not work.

• Managing the process is important. Teachers need to plan what content is to be studied outside of class time using videos and what activities will be done in class.

• Restructuring the class to cater for differentiated learning is essential. Advanced learners can be placed into groups and work ahead of the class. The less able learners can receive individual attention from the teacher.

Important points to take note of:

• Technology can never replace a good teacher. In the flipped classroom, the teacher leads the process and facilitates the learning process.

• Teachers who can successfully incorporate technology-based approaches like flipped learning into their classrooms are at the forefront of modern education.

"Let go of some of the control
and your learners
will really amaze you."