A New Beginning-Flip Class

Today is a new beginning for my students and me.

Today I introduced my classes to the "flip" concept.  Both of my preps will be using it.  I currently teach Forensic Science and General Chemistry.  Forensic Science is an elective composed mainly of seniors.  General Chemistry is a required class (by the state) for graduation.  My students in Chemistry are either considered At Risk, 504 students or SPED.  They are here because they have to be not because they want to be.  My goal with them will be to make the class more interesting, more hands on and less talk. 

While flip has many meanings I look it as more blending online with in class activities.  A brief survey today found that 90% of my students have internet access at home.  99% have internet or a DVD player or can stay after school or get hear early.  Only 1% don't have internet or a DVD player.  My solution will be to supply paper copies to that group.  I have created a Google Voice number for student to call in their responses for those that don't have home tech access or they can just show me their notes.  I feel it is very important to keep things as simple and short as possible and not let the students have an excuse not to do the "assignment".  My goal in this area is not to take up more than 10 minutes of their home time.  They may take longer but it is their option and not my requirement.
 
A friend of mine that does this already says it takes training the students and putting everything in one place.  I have done that with my website.  So we here go on a great adventure!  I'm excited! Finally, I will be posting periodic updates here.