Why I Flip My Lessons

Why do I flip my lessons (a flipped lesson is one that is recorded for students to view)?  I get asked that all the time.  Why do you take the time to record your content?  There are lot's of reasons why, but let me just list a few.

I have my students in stations this year, at least my youngest students. I posted about my station solution yesterday (click here).   I ask them to come into the classroom and join me at the carpet. We talk about the concept of the day, they watch some videos and they are off to work.

For my older students they can watch the video as a group but if anyone comes in late, is gone for the day, has a question, or needs something at their own pace... they use an iPad for instruction a second time (or third time...)

Here's why I do them...

• My videos are quick (1 minute to 4 most of the time).  
• They are filmed so all students can see... not only the ones in the front row around my demonstration table.  
• All students watch! I don't know what it is about putting something on Youtube, but these kids listen to it better than they listen to me.  
• I can redirect individuals who are being disruptive or off task without stopping the lesson.  
• These lessons reveal the 'full' story thanks to this thing called editing and time lapse. 

I used to have everything cued up on my computer when I was showing videos... no longer.  I bring them to this blog and show them that in the top of the toolbar is 'Mrs. Hahn's Youtube'.  This way they know where to go when they want to visit a video again.  I have had more students than ever before say they have visited my Youtube.  Sometimes I make video with the idea in mind that students will be watching this at home, and this would be a fun 'extra' for home use. 

Another perk to using flipped lessons is to make sure everyone gets the same information.  If you teach multiple sections of the same class you know that you sometimes forget to say things... you just said that... right?  or was that yesterday.  

Sometimes when the videos are playing, I prep.  I have one class coming into art while the other class is leaving.  This means there is no time to set anything up if needed. When I have a flipped lesson I can quietly make sure I have the supplies ready for the students.

The best thing about flipping my instruction is that others can use it.  I love sharing my videos with other teachers.  I especially love sharing my videos with my home-schooled niece and her friends.  It's fun to teach students and share with teachers from all over the world.