I haven't blogged for a while because I've been quite overwhelmed with getting everything done with all my "flipping". My stats class is flipping very nicely. My overwhelming impetus is the backorder of textbooks that hasn't come in yet, resulting in only half the necessary texts being available for the class. This was interesting when students needed to take their first test and felt woefully unprepared without a textbook to study from. When I pointed them to the Edmodo site, complete with videos and PowerPoints (which I started loading for students as well), they felt better. I let them take the test with their handwritten notes only (I am quite evil in that regard). I felt that notes were appropriate given that they didn't have texts, but that they needed to put personal effort into their learning experience.
My Algebra 1 class has been flipping quite nicely too. I am using Khan Academy for my in-class activities, but both classes (flipped and regular) receive the same instruction. The flipped class just receives it through a video they watch for homework. I have trouble getting students to watch the videos prior to class, though. The Khan Academy site gives them plenty of practice with the problems, but one of my students desires a more interactive classroom experience. I need to give serious thought to this, because, though the classroom is quiet, it can be considered boring. However, all the students dutifully engage in the practice exercises and ask plenty of questions, so I am torn. Both classes seem quite advanced and are progressing at a fast pace through the first chapter. I am nearly ready for the chapter test.
The Edmodo site has been a lifesaver for flipping and for adjuncting. My students LOVE getting their class notes saved to the website and the community college students occasionally post questions to the site for me to answer for them.
