Tip #4: Keep it Short

A tip to live by…I know this sounds like common sense, but it is easier said than done. Last year, when I flipped my Pre-AP Biology courses most of my videos were 15-20 minutes long, some longer. I thought this was the perfect time frame, especially since that was much less time than lecture would have taken in most cases. Through discussions with students, I found out that this was too long. They brought up the fact that if they watch the presentation, pause the video, and try to take notes it takes quite a bit longer than 15-20 minutes. This also does not count the time that they use to re-watch a video. I assume that many teachers beginning the flip probably make this same mistake because they want to “lecture” and put it on video. This year, for Chemistry, all the videos I have created thus far are between five and seven minutes. Moreover, I only do one topic at a time instead of discussing multiple topics. My Chem students are much more receptive because they do not see this as a large time commitment. Also, they are not inundated with information since I keep the videos focused.

Flipping Again?

It is time for school to begin again, where did summer go? For this fall, I will be teaching Geology and Chemistry. Last school year, I flipped my three pre-AP Biology courses. For this school year, I am considering flipping my Chemistry classes. Since last year, my list of potential resources has grown exponentially. Whereas last school year I used voiced-over PowerPoints, this year I have several apps to use, VoiceThread, TedEd, and others. I am almost overwhelmed with choices. Because Chemistry is probably my weakest subject, I am a bit apprehensive about flipping. The goal of flipping for me is to get more time in-class for reinforcement, discussion, labs, and so forth. I am going to work with other, more seasoned Chemistry teachers in my department this week. Although they will not be flipping, I think I can learn valuable tips and resources.