Flipped Classroom

The “Flipped Classroom” is an innovative pedagogical model that inverts traditional teaching methods by shifting direct instruction outside of the classroom and bringing interactive activities into the learning environment. Whereas conventional education typically involves teachers lecturing during class time and assigning practice tasks such as homework for students to complete independently, the flipped classroom reverses this sequence. Students first encounter new material—often through video lectures, readings, or other digital media—before class, allowing classroom time to be devoted to exercises, discussions, problem-solving, and collaborative learning under the guidance of the instructor.

One core advantage of the flipped classroom approach is the promotion of active learning and increased engagement. By freeing up classroom time from passive lecture, teachers can focus on higher-order cognitive tasks, including analysis, application, and synthesis, which are fundamental components of Bloom’s Taxonomy. This environment enables students to work together, ask questions, and receive immediate feedback, which can help consolidate understanding and address individual misconceptions faster than traditional homework. Moreover, exposure to content outside of class allows students to learn at their own pace, pausing and rewinding videos as needed—accommodating different learning styles and fostering self-directed learning skills.

Scientifically, research on the efficacy of the flipped classroom model provides promising, though nuanced, results. Studies have found that students in flipped classrooms often display greater motivation, improved attitudes toward learning, and, in certain contexts, higher academic achievement compared to peers in traditional settings. The model has been successfully implemented across diverse disciplines—from STEM subjects to humanities—and in K-12 as well as postsecondary environments. However, successful flipping requires careful planning; educators must curate or produce high-quality pre-class materials and design meaningful in-class activities. Additionally, challenges such as disparities in technology access and student accountability must be addressed to maximize the benefits of this model. As education continues to evolve with technological innovation, the flipped classroom stands as a prominent example of student-centered, blended learning that prepares learners for deeper engagement and lifelong learning. 

PhDr. Pavel Bartoš, LL.M., DBA (Evropská akademie vzdělávání / European Academy of education)