The flipped classroom is an innovative pedagogical model that inverts traditional teaching methods by delivering instructional content, often online, outside of the classroom. Instead of using class time for direct instruction, students first engage with new material on their own, commonly through video lectures, podcasts, or assigned readings. Classroom time is then repurposed for collaborative activities, complex problem-solving, discussion, and personalized guidance, allowing for deeper engagement with the subject matter and immediate feedback from instructors and peers.
This approach is rooted in the principles of active learning and constructivism, where learners build their own understanding through interaction and application. The flipped classroom addresses common challenges in conventional education, such as varying student learning paces and passive learning environments. By offloading initial content delivery, teachers can use classroom sessions to address individual difficulties, encourage critical thinking, and foster collaborative skills. Empirical studies indicate that the flipped model can enhance student motivation, retention, and performance, particularly in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) courses. It also enables differentiation, as students can pause, rewind, or review content at their own convenience.
Despite its advantages, the flipped classroom presents challenges, including increased preparation time for instructors and the prerequisite of student self-discipline. Equity issues can arise if students lack access to digital resources outside of school. Successful implementation requires careful instructional design, support for students transitioning to more autonomous learning modes, and ongoing assessment to ensure meaningful engagement with content. As technology becomes increasingly integrated into education, the flipped classroom exemplifies a shift towards more learner-centered pedagogy, prioritizing critical thinking, communication, and lifelong learning skills in the twenty-first century.
PhDr. Pavel Bartoš, LL.M., DBA (Evropská akademie vzdělávání / European Academy of education)
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