Northeastern Illinois University Associate Professor of Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Athletics Jennifer Banas is a co-editor of a new book about the concept of flipped classrooms.
“The Flipped College Classroom: Conceptualized and Re-Conceptualized” is Banas’ first book as an editor or author, and was co-authored with Lucy Santos Green of Georgia Southern University and Ross Perkins of Boise State University. The book was published Nov. 9 by Springer International Publishing.
Flipping classrooms is the practice of reversing—or flipping—the traditional teaching model. Rather than spending class time listening to lectures, in the flipped model students view video lectures at home and then perform exercises and projects in the classroom.
“Our book provides step-by-step directions for both skilled and new instructors on how to flip one's class to improve teaching/learning,” Banas said. “We want to support faculty who are seeking to improve their instruction in ways that render it more effective, efficient and engaging.”
Banas said the book’s editors and authors had two primary motivations for writing “The Flipped College Classroom.” First, they wanted to dispel the notion that flipping classrooms is a “novelty” mode of teaching. Rather, it’s just good teaching practice. Second, they recognized that the vast majority of college professors have not received training on teaching, yet are often expected to take on a full teaching load upon hire. While they might be an expert in their field, they might not be an expert in motivating students to learn about the subject matter and identifying the best methods to foster understanding.
“For example, a physics faculty member could hold multiple degrees, but without any previous training on how to organize curriculum and implement instruction, both the professor and the students might have an initial bumpy ride,” Banas said. “The lack of training doesn't preclude that faculty member from becoming an effective instructor, but he or she could benefit from some support.”
“The Flipped College Classroom” provides step-by-step directions for both skilled and new instructors on how to flip a class to improve teaching and learning. To make it relevant to a wider audience, the book provides case study examples from 32 fields from across the United States and in other countries.
