The Continuous and Systematic Study of the College Algebra Flipped Classroom

Abstract

A flipped classroom teaching approach was used in the teaching of college algebra within a broader initiative for mathematics learning. The flipped classroom approach was documented as an integrated teaching model acknowledging multiple teaching approaches, including in-class cooperative learning, mentored laboratory activities, and online teaching videos. A design and development framework was used to describe the design decisions, model implementation, and model evaluation across three deliveries (cases 1, 2, and 3a/3b) of a college algebra course from fall of 2012 through fall of 2013. Key findings included students perceiving video outside of class as resources and not instruction. What replaced the lecture during face-to-face class time was integral to the success of the flipped classroom teaching approach. The use of videos does not constitute a flipped classroom, but requires an overall teaching strategy with an involved teacher who pays attention to individual student needs.