Blended, Flipped, or Personalized?

Blog: Blended, Flipped, or Personalized?

     The two concepts of “Flipped” and “Personalized” learning are both viable methods of instruction for my students. Actually, they both could be worked into my pedagogy in class simultaneously with some students.  Beginning with “Flipped” learning, this can alleviate two predicaments of an educator: one of these is students following through on homework assignments; another, parental supervision and the ability to help their child. By adapting a “Flipped” learning strategy, preparatory work would be done at home, and the sometimes tedious and constructive process of reflection and writing reflections would be accomplished in class with supervision and assistance provided in the classroom setting. As an example, research and reading for a particular subject in history would be the pre-class assignment, while writing a reflection would be done in class. One aspect of this is the reduction of the parent’s responsibility for making sure their child is doing homework. In addition, parental knowledge of the subject or the method of writing the assessment would not be required. During the writing process, the student would be in class and I would be available to answer questions and assist in formatting the final written result.

   “Personalized” learning can be implemented with a student who is excelling in the classroom coursework; left alone she may become bored and unmotivated. The goal would be to construct a personalized rubric, which includes individual interests and self directed methods of demonstrating mastery, taking into consideration learning styles: auditory, visual, logical, kinesthetic, social, and solitary. At one time, this was called “Independent” study.                       

  Both approaches can work simultaneously in the scenario of the pupil who is developing an independent study or personalized learning plan, researches the topic outside of class, and develops his method of demonstrating mastery during class time. This could include the rest of the students during a presentation where the class is the audience. Another option would be a role playing scenario involving other members of the class with the personalized learning, directing, and heading up the team of students as an end result. Peer review with two students and collaborative learning can also be built on these concepts. Leading and learning by example is a very effective way to retain information.