After a small pilot study last year, BJA is conducting a larger evaluation of the use of iPads and the flipped classroom methodology this school year.
Students enrolled in core 9th-grade classes—Algebra I, English 9, Physical Science, World Geography and World History—will use an iPad at school and, if desired, at home. eTextbooks will be on each iPad, lightening student backpack loads.
Teachers in several of these classes have been working over the summer to produce short lecture videos, quizzes, tests and other class materials that will be accessible through a secure online learning management system.
The flipped classroom method inverts traditional classroom methodology. Students watch short teacher-created video lectures at home and do homework or guided practice in class. Classroom time is focused on understanding and application of key concepts using teacher-developed classroom activities that promote critical thinking and allow the teacher to work with individual students and their needs.
Teachers involved in this evaluation are not changing the core content of their classes. Instead, they are taking the information they would normally give in class and delivering it at home via video in order to have more one-on-one time with each student in class. Each teacher will implement the flipped classroom differently and at his/her discretion; no two flipped classrooms will look the same.
The goal is that this year’s evaluation will give good information not only about academic results but also about Christian digital citizenship and the effective use of technology in the classroom.
To find out more about this year’s evaluation, click here. (bjaflippedclassroom.weebly.com)
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