Flipped Classroom Research: Boosting Student Engagement
Teaching A-level economics to 16-19 year olds presents unique challenges. When Pauline Davison noticed her predominantly teacher-led lessons weren't reaching all students equally—particularly struggling with lower-ability students and girls—she knew something had to change.
The feedback was clear: students wanted more interactive learning experiences. Yet with demanding A-level content to cover, finding time for student-led activities seemed impossible. Traditional lessons left some students disengaged, while the teacher felt drained from carrying the entire learning load.
Enter the flipped classroom approach—a teaching method that turns traditional learning on its head. Instead of delivering content during class time and assigning practice as homework, students review lesson materials beforehand, freeing up precious classroom hours for interactive activities and deeper engagement.
But would this approach actually work with real students facing real academic pressures?
Davison embarked on a comprehensive action research project, implementing flipped classroom techniques across two different year groups over eight weeks. Using a mix of YouTube educational videos, pre-reading materials, and carefully designed in-class activities, she transformed her teaching approach while meticulously documenting student responses.
The results revealed fascinating insights about student preferences, engagement levels, and the practical realities of implementing innovative teaching methods. Some findings challenged her initial assumptions, while others confirmed what many educators suspect about reaching different types of learners.
Through detailed observations, focus groups, and student feedback surveys, this research provides valuable evidence about whether flipped classrooms truly increase student engagement. The study also uncovers unexpected challenges—from behaviour management issues to the intensive planning requirements that many teachers don't anticipate.
Whether you're considering flipping your own classroom or simply curious about innovative teaching approaches, Davison's honest account offers practical insights that extend far beyond economics education.