Jaclyn MacLeod
Author
Jaclyn MacLeod
Affiliation
Cape Breton University
Abstract
Online learning is no longer a futuristic idea. A large number of students in post-secondary institutions are enrolling in some form of online learning. We are now seeing the addition online courses in our high schools as well. While the idea of a full course online at the high school level still seems like too much for some, instructors are finding ways to incorporate online learning into their traditional classrooms.
The concept of a flipped classroom as a type of online learning is becoming more popular. A flipped allows students to receive the content of the lesson at home so that time in class can be spent practicing and developing. While the creation of a flipped classroom can be overwhelming for an instructional designer, the use of effective tools can make things a lot easier. Google Apps for Education is a collection of cloud-based programs that work seamlessly together and can be used effectively to help develop a flipped classroom model.
Keywords
Online learning, Flipped Classroom, Google Apps for Education
Overview
Using GAfE to Flip a Classroom (10:23)
Introduction
Have you ever wanted to learn how to play the piano? Does the job you want to apply for require WHMIS certification? No matter what you want to learn, there is probably a way to do it online.
With the advancement of technology and a society that is more globally connected than ever, online learning is becoming much more common. High schools in Nova Scotia are offering courses online through virtual school and secondary institutions are offering select courses or entire programs online. Instructors are working technology into their lessons through blended learning and flipped classrooms and workplaces are offering online training and professional development.
The Canadian Digital Learning Research Association conducted a yearly survey from 2017-2019 with hopes to track the development of online, distance and digital learning in post-secondary institutions in Canada. In both 2018 and 2019 Canadian post-secondary institutions saw an increase of about 10% in the number of students registering in some form of online learning (Johnson, 2019). In addition, it was reported that in 2018 roughly 1 in 5 Canadians students were taking at least one course online for credit (Canadian Digital Learning Research Association, 2019).
While the number of high school students taking virtual classes is also on the rise, the number of students who will take their first online course in a post-secondary institution is high. Students are taking these courses will little to no experience with online learning. Students new to the online learning model often have trouble managing their time and staying motivated among other things (Kumar, 2015). Introducing students to online learning in high school will help ease the transition into post- secondary education (Virtual High School, 2018).
This does not have to be done th