Not only companies are relying on digital learning and new learning concepts. New teaching approaches are also playing an increasingly important role in schools. The learning habits of students have changed significantly in recent years.

One reason is the growing prevalence of internet-enabled devices, such as smartphones or tablets. When it comes to homework, the laptop or smartphone has become a learning companion. For this reason, more and more schools are offering learning content on e-learning platforms.

Simply providing teaching materials is not enough to motivate students to learn. Learning partnerships and a meaningful connection between classroom teaching and online learning materials must be established. If students are also involved in the creation of learning materials, it simultaneously promotes learning performance and willingness to participate.

The Gesamtschule Höhscheid has implemented a Flipped Classroom concept with the blink.it app. It is well received by students, parents, and teachers:

What is a "Flipped Classroom" concept?

The Flipped Classroom concept (also known as Inverted Classroom Model) reverses the usual learning phases in school. In the traditional classroom setting, theoretical content is presented during in-person classes. Afterwards, students receive tasks and exercises to be completed at home. In a Flipped Classroom concept, students prepare for the next lesson's topic at home with the help of online content. For this, students have access to videos, podcasts, and forums. In the classroom, the tasks are discussed, the content is debated, and the knowledge is applied or deepened. The teacher is therefore no longer the presenter providing the information. Instead, he or she accompanies and supports the students in learning and applying the knowledge. A detailed article on the Flipped Classroom concept additionally describes the framework conditions. If you're interested in a video on the subject, this presentation offers a good overview:

How was the Flipped Classroom concept implemented in Höhscheid?

The teachers involved produce these learning videos on their own. These videos are used in English and mathematics lessons. For example, teachers used the explanatory videos to explain specific mathematical processes. However, textbooks and worksheets are not replaced by the videos. Rather, the videos serve as a supplement or are used for deepening specific topics. Students were also allowed to step in front of the camera to produce their own explanatory videos. The idea that one learns best by explaining to others is well-established.

Thanks to the improved camera capabilities of smart devices (smartphones & tablets), it is possible to film high-quality videos with minimal technical equipment. Usually, only a good microphone and an additional light source are needed. The superstars of today's youth are “YouTubers” rather than stars from television. Many young people dream of building their own following on YouTube and, for this reason, have a strong interest in working with video.

Digital learning and the use of new media have also convinced NRW Education Minister Sylvia Löhrmann during her visit to Gesamtschule Höhscheid. She informed herself about the use of e-learning, explanatory videos, and the “Flipped Classroom” concept.

What does Flipped Classroom have to do with training in companies?

The ideas of the Flipped Classroom can also be transferred to training and workshops. Blended learning concepts are similarly structured and aim to provide online content for self-learning phases. In in-person sessions, this knowledge is deepened with regard to practical application. Learning methods that are impractical in an online setting can be employed, such as discussions, role plays, and group exercises. With the right preparation, you can also offer a blended learning course. These steps are necessary for that.

What do you think about the Flipped Classroom concept? What experiences have you had? Write us your questions or leave us a comment.