Flipping Over into 2013

Much of the writing in the area of the use of technology in academic leadership revolves around the method known as "flipping". Flipping the classroom and Flipping the Staffroom are terms that are synonymous with this movement. The methods, although varied, basically involve changing or flipping the order of information to produce greater interaction between students or staff members during common meeting times- classes, staff meetings. To my mind it places on the back burner the broadcast aspect (lectures, note taking, announcements, bulletin items) that have traditionally featured prominently in schools, replaced by more productive interchange between participants during common meeting times.

There are a variety of ways in which teachers and school leaders can us the flip method. Sending out information using power points, videos, notes, that contains the broadcast elements in advance allows recipients the opportunity to review and become familiar with material. Thus, the common meeting time can focus on planning, discussing, and examining matters of mutual interest.

While I have only a limited experience of working with this method I have vowed to use it to a greater extent in 2013. I have found that "front-end loading" the information allows recipients (students, staff) to examine the material at a time and pace that the individual is most comfortable with. Of course it presupposes that individuals will read or become familiar with the material and be ready to discuss the content productively. This takes time, but being conscious of time is perhaps the greatest strength of this method. Let's face it, using time productively is critical in today's learning environment for both students and staff alike- not to mention families. Respecting that no class or meeting should be designed with activity that can be described as "fillers" - non-productive and limited in engagement- is a key driver behind this initiative.

With the first week of school in 2013 just completed, I look forward to assessing the value of this program in both the classrooms and meetings that I am involved with. As the calendar turns over, so too does the imperative to flip.