Flipped classroom is an instructional approach where traditional teaching methods are reversed or "flipped." In a flipped classroom, students first learn new content or concepts independently outside of class, typically through pre-recorded videos or reading assignments. Then, during class time, they engage in active learning activities, discussions, or problem-solving exercises facilitated by the teacher to deepen their understanding and apply what they've learned.

The key idea is that the passive consumption of information (lecture-style teaching) happens outside the classroom, while the active learning and interaction with the teacher occur inside the classroom. This approach aims to promote deeper understanding, critical thinking, and student engagement by using in-class time more effectively for collaborative and interactive learning experiences.

In the course 'Flipped Classroom' we were presented different strategies, resources and digital tools that might be useful in order to bring this innovative methology into our schools. 

1. CANVA: This is a versatile graphic design tool that can be used to create visually appealling tutorials and educational materials. Canva offers a wide range of templates designed for various purposes, including tutorials. Templates can be edited to fit your specific needs. In addition, students can use Canva as visual support to create engaging presentations. Here are some of the examples that I created during my course to introduce myself to the rest of the participants.

2. CAPCUT: This is a user-friendly video editing app known for its user-friendly interface and a wide range of features (you can add text, music, filters, etc). It provides essential video editing tools (trimming, cutting, splitting, etc) making it easy to edit videos to be used in your classroom. We made some practice during the course. Flipping the classroom also means telling your students to record videos by themselves. In this video you can see four teachers, pretending that they are students who are learning Irish.

3. CULTURAL ACTIVITIES: The course also included a set of cultural activities that helped us learn about the Irish culture, engaging the participants in communicative situations that made us improve our speaking skills in English. They organised walking tours, some trips, an Irish dancing workshop, a demonstration of the popoular Irish sport 'hurling' and an international food festival, among others.

We learned about the benefits of using the flipped classroom approach. 

1. Active Learning: Students are actively engaged during class, participating in discussions and applying knowledge, which can lead to better understanding and retention of the material.

2. Personalized Pace: Students can learn at their own pace outside of class, reviewing content as needed, and using class time to address specific questions and challenges.

3. Deeper Understanding: Pre-class materials allow students to familiarize themselves with concepts, making class time more productive for deeper discussions and critical thinking.

4. Increased Interaction: Classroom becomes a space for collaboration, peer learning, and one-on-one interaction with the instructor, enhancing engagement and motivation.

5. Real-world Application: Flipped classrooms emphasize practical application of knowledge, helping students develop problem-solving and analytical skills.

6. Flexibility: Students can access pre-class materials online, providing flexibility for those who need to manage their learning around other commitments.

7. Teacher-Student Interaction: Instructors have more opportunities to provide individualized guidance and support to students based on their needs.

8. Improved Assessment: Class time can be dedicated to formative assessments, allowing instructors to gauge student understanding and adjust their teaching accordingly.

9. Enhanced Student Ownership: Students take responsibility for their learning and are more likely to be proactive in seeking help when needed.

10. Higher Engagement: Interactive and hands-on activities during class can lead to increased engagement and a more positive learning experience.

Without any doubt, we will put into practice this methodology at our school as this model encourages active participation, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of the subject matter, making it a valuable approach in modern education.