News

Flipped teaching

Published 15 March 2013

A University of Brighton academic has successfully implemented a new teaching approach for higher education science.

Dr Bhavik Patel joined a panel on a live web worldwide debate in the comments section of a Guardian newspaper article. Go to alternative teaching models in higher education.

The new system, which he calls Reverse Learning and is more commonly known as Flipped Teaching, has been widely used in schools and to teach in business and humanities in higher education but rarely utilised for science based subjects – until now.

Dr Patel, Senior Lecturer in the university's School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Science, uses this method to teach undergraduates.

He explained: "Students are given an electronic video lecture that covers the key scientific theory. This electronic lecture is studied prior to a taught workshop, which focuses on any areas of difficulty and applications of the studied theory. The students are supported with an online blog, where they can post comments and direct the areas they would like the lecturer to cover.

"Not only do students study the material prior to the workshop session, but this form of learning has also enhanced attendance and grades.

"There are many benefits. From the lecturer's perspective, there is more scope on how the material that needs to be delivered is covered. The lecturer can also gain a feeling on the progress made by students in the topic covered and, finally, the lecturer can develop a closer relationship with his/her students.

"From the student's perspective, they can take ownership of their learning; they can see the relevance of particular topics and most importantly, can see the lecturer answer any questions or problem areas they have identified.

"Students also have the ability to cover the electronic learning material in their own time and speed. Overall for this approach to work, students need to embrace this approach and effectively study prior to the taught workshop."

Students have hailed the new system. Hannah Cave, first year BSc Pharmaceutical and Chemical Science student said: "It's a really effective method of teaching that emphasises independent learning and group work. It is very useful to have multimedia references prior to workshops so a basic understanding is already established. The applied workshop really helps to but the theory into context. Overall it is a fantastic method and should be used by all.