Stacey Roshan is an upper level math teacher at Bullis High School in Potomac, MD. Having noticed the high levels of anxiety surrounding her students (especially in more difficult classes such as AP calculus), Stacey realized that the traditional classroom does not provide the right tools in order for students to stay caught up and engaged with course materials. Because of this she decided to flip her classroom and can’t wait to apply the same to her future classes as well.

ISTE 2012: Reduce Student Anxiety Levels through the Flipped Model
Imagine teaching an advanced placement calculus class with strong achievement expectations. How would you ensure that you are able to address each student’s questions, concerns and comprehension levels in a difficult subject?

In this session, Stacey will explain how using the flipped tool kit and iPads have changed her students’ learning environment. Outcomes include increased comprehension, reduced anxiety levels and grade improvements without increasing class time or homework.

Watch this presentation:
Monday: 11:00AM, 2:30PM
Tuesday: 2:00PM, 4:00PM
Wednesday: 12:00PM
[Download full schedule]

An interview with Stacey:

Describe to me a typical day in your classroom.
A typical day in my classroom would consist of students already having watched a video lecture for homework and having filled out the guided notes. When they get to class I go around and check to make sure that all their guided notes are filled out. Then the students are free to begin class by working on problems that are assigned for the day. The act of them solving problems in class then leads to discussions and collaborative work.

As they start to work, they’re free to work on their own or in groups. My role is to walk around and listen in on their discussions so I can have a better understanding of the students’ struggles and needs. I usually have a general idea of what I need to get across to them in class that day but when I listen to their discussions I can really monitor what issues need to be addressed.

What are some tools you use to teach your classes?
I make my videos with Camtasia then post them on iTunes and my course webpage so that they’re easily accessible. This year we had a few iPads for students to use but next year we’re actually getting laptops so students can replay sections of videos as needed while in discussion with their classmates. I also sometimes have them use ScreenChomp in class for test reviews. They learn a lot through explaining things themselves.

How much time has the flipped model saved you?
I usually say it’s like having 50% more time than I used to have… which is a lot. The reason I flipped my classroom was because I had an overly anxious class and didn’t have enough time to support my students and address all their questions. I felt like I was speeding through my lessons. That dynamic has now changed; I’ve moved from driver to facilitator. And that for me is the beauty of it. Because we have a lot more time now, it becomes more about what the students need rather than what I need to get through.

How does the flipped model provide individualized attention for each student?
I get to walk around the entire period. I don’t just listen to myself talk or only hear from the talkative students anymore. This way I get to hear from everybody. I also get to hear what the students are saying to each other and pick up on little things that they might be too afraid to say to the whole class. I can clear up a misconception immediately instead of having them go home with an unresolved misunderstanding.

What’s the biggest challenge you face as an educator?
I’m asking my students to be independent and resourceful in their learning and to figure out their own answers. I’m trying to do less telling and more guiding them towards the right direction. But this means that I’m giving them a lot of ownership which can be a challenge. I’m asking a lot out of them. It’s a lot of responsibility on the students sometimes, but I’m there to support them. The skills they develop in our flipped classroom benefits them in the long run, especially as far as preparation for college goes.

Connect with Stacey:

Here’s a closer look into Stacey’s flipped classroom: