Instead of introducing content to students via a traditional lecture and then asking them to apply the knowledge during homework, a flipped classroom reserves the interactive and applied learning for in-class time and engages students with new course content through readings and multimedia outside of class. This class design concept fosters active learning, critical thinking, and academic resilience. A recent Faculty Focus article introduced ways to incorporate new technologies such as AI, microlearning, and learning analytics into the flipped classroom to support student engagement and deep learning, particularly during out-of-class learning time.
AI Tools
AI learning tools, including chatbots and generative tools like ChatGPT and Gemini, can be used to prepare students for class by offering on-demand explanations, peer discussions, low-stakes quizzes, and instant feedback. Such learning opportunities help students navigate new content and digest new concepts through multiple formats. In addition, AI tools help educators identify patterns in student behavior and performance, which allows for more needs-based interventions in class.
Microlearning
Many new college students are accustomed to fast-paced digital environments and show increasing signs of limited attention spans. Microlearning uses short, focused modules to target single learning goals, making it ideal for students used to fast-paced digital environments. By breaking content into bite-sized pieces with repetition and quick assessments, it boosts retention and fits easily into mobile and flexible learning, especially in hybrid or online settings.
Learning Analytics
Learning analytics give instructors insight into student progress through LMS dashboards. It helps identify who’s completed pre-class work, how they’re performing, and where support is needed. Analytics also boost student accountability and enable proactive, data-informed teaching, making it possible to move from reactive to proactive teaching.
The authors also discuss student motivation and preparedness in the new digital world, as well as how to avoid pitfalls in tech-enhanced flipped classrooms. Read the article to learn more! Faculty Focus: Reimagining the Flipped Classroom
Sarah Lausch