Does a flipped classroom have to involve using a video?

the short answer: no

Robert Talbot, PhD, author of Flipped Learning, A guide for higher Education Faculty, says that flipped learning is

"a pedagogical approach in which first contact with new concepts moves from the group learning space to the individual learning space in the form of a structured activity, and the resulting group space is transformed into a dynamic, interactive learning environment where the educator guides students as they apply concepts and engage creatively in the subject matter. "

by this definition alone, it's clear that the learning that happens ahead of time does not have to be a video.  The author asserts that the misconception that flipped classrooms are intricately tied to videos has to do with the popularity , but also misunderstanding of the book, Flip Your Classroom, Reach every student every day, by Aaron Sams and Jonathan Bergmann.  This is the book on which most of my blog posts have been based, and is an excellent resource for flipped classrooms.  Both of the authors primarily used videos in their flipped classrooms but nowhere in the book did they say that videos HAD to be used.  Another reason for the general educator's confusion on this issue lies with the Khan Academy. This is a very well known method for teaching Math- utilizing videos to front load the information.

So, what are the alternatives?

1. Text + Structured Activity-   Some students learn better by reading either online or in paper form.  The key here is to add a structured activity, rather than just assigning reading and telling students to come ready to discuss.

2. Audio + Structured Activity- this could be a podcast or some other form of audio.

3. Text + social annotation + structured Activity- this is reading with notes and social interaction

4. Games + structured activity- some students learn best through games and it can spark their curiousity.

5. Simulations + structured Activity- this allows students to play around with interactive models that will pique their interest later.

So, clearly flipped classrooms do not have to be videos.  I still have a lot to learn and try to implement this school year.

Let me know what you think in the comments!

Resource:
http://rtalbert.org/flipped-learning-without-video/

Flipped classrooms in practice

In Northern Virginia's editorial article, Technology Goes to School, the author makes the point that flipped classrooms, blended learning and one to one programs are changing the way students learn and think.   "In a 21st century model, it's not what you know that's important, it's what you can do with that knowledge."

Digital technology breaks down barriers and enhances learning.  This article states that pen and paper are not going extinct, but that technology is there to improve the learning experience.

We don’t see pen and paper as extinct,” says Timothy Flynn, director of instructional services in Loudoun County Public Schools. “There is always a place for books, reading and writing. Technology is not a substitute but an enhancement. Our emphasis is always on instruction and how technology can improve it.”

There are many ways that technology is creating new excitement in Loudoun County students.  They are finding connections with the outside world and bringing those connections to the classroom.  Specifically, flipped classrooms can free up more time to discuss and analyze the content with their teacher.

When addressing the concern about increased technology use leading to too much screen time, Derek Kelley, coordinator of instructional technology integration at Fairfax County Public Schools, said, "This gives the students more control over how, what and where they learn,"

Many of the classrooms in Fairfax County are flipped, which allows students more time to collaborate face to face.  It actually reduces screen time because students are doing their homework, watching videos, at home, and then coming to school to work in groups.

Overall, the article points out that flipped classrooms are just one of the many ways that technology is improving our classrooms.  It's time for us to embrace all of the possibilities, rather than being afraid and stagnant.