Flipped Classroom Guide
Connected Resources
Complete your instructor training with these guides:
- Workplace Simulation Guide - Learn how to implement the simulation methodology
- Integration Guide - See how flipped classroom and workplace simulation work together
What is Flipped Classroom?
Flipped Classroom Definition
Flipped Classroom is a teaching methodology where learners complete assigned materials at home to establish baseline knowledge, and instructors spend class time focused on pain points and active application rather than repeating what learners already understand.
The instructor shifts from “lecturer” to “coach and facilitator” – reinforcing key concepts and addressing misconceptions through hands-on practice.
Flipped Classroom – What It IS
Core Principles
Learner Preparation
- Learners complete assigned materials at home to establish baseline knowledge
- Instructors identify gaps and spend class time focused on pain points
- Class time is maximized for hands-on practice, not content delivery
Instructor Role Shift
- Shift from 'lecturer' to 'coach and facilitator'
- Reinforce key concepts and address misconceptions
- Focus on areas where learners struggle, not reteaching content
Daily Structure
- Brief lecture to review core principles
- Use 'I do, we do, you do' method for demonstration
- Gradual release towards independent practice
Flipped Classroom – What It Is NOT
Common Misconceptions
NOT Lecture Heavy
- Instructors should NOT reteach all content from pre-work
- Maximize class time by focusing on areas where learners struggle
- Avoid repeating what learners already understand
NOT Self-Study Only
- Learners are NOT responsible for teaching themselves
- Instructors provide guidance and support during application
- Active facilitation is required, not hands-off approach
NOT Office Hours
- Instructors should NOT wait for learners to bring questions
- Proactive engagement and coaching is essential
- Structured activities, not passive availability
NOT Hands-Off Instructor
- Instructors should be MORE active, not less
- Circulating, observing, and coaching while learners work
- Facilitating discussions and providing real-time feedback
Flipped Classroom vs Workplace Simulation
Understanding the Difference
Workplace Simulation
- • Learners work in groups, assuming job-like roles
- • Class time mimics real workplace scenarios
- • SOME cohorts are using this, expanding to more
- • Focus: Where learning happens
Flipped Learning
- • Learners review content before class
- • Class time dedicated to applying knowledge
- • ALL cohorts should be using this
- • Focus: How we teach
Current Implementation Requirements
Bottom Line
Every instructor must flip their classroom. Workplace simulation is required for pilot courses now, will roll out to older courses as they’re updated, and is exempt for flex courses due to scheduling structures.
Simulation Pilot Courses
Simulation Pilot Courses
Flipped Classroom: ✓ Required
- • Full implementation of flipped model
- • All pre-class content delivery mandatory
- • Learners must engage with materials before class
Workplace Simulation: ✓ Required
- • Complete adherence to simulation protocols
- • Role assignments and authentic tasks
- • Workplace-aligned assessment methods
How to Implement Flipped + Simulation-Aligned Teaching
See Also
This section covers the flipped classroom methodology. For detailed workplace simulation implementation, see the Workplace Simulation Guide, specifically the Q-P-D Launch and Daily Flow sections.
Three-Phase Daily Flow
Step 1: Before Class – Flipped Content Delivery
Learner Expectations:
- Watching curriculum videos
- Reading course materials
- Reviewing walkthroughs or setup steps
- Preparing for the next day's lab
Instructor Responsibilities:
- Curate or create engaging materials that prepare learners for active application
- Include knowledge checks to verify completion
- Keep pre-class content focused and digestible—aim for 15-30 minutes maximum
Step 2: During Class – Active Application
Always begin with:
- A scenario, discussion prompt, or problem that requires applying pre-class knowledge
- Brief review (only if multiple learners struggled with pre-work)
- Set the day's focus (connect to workplace simulation context)
In simulation courses:
- Learners step into professional roles—technicians, team members, analysts
- Perform authentic workplace tasks with realistic constraints
- Use applied activities, case studies, collaborative problem-solving
Your role:
- Facilitate, observe, provide real-time feedback
- Guide learners through challenges
- You're the coach, not the lecturer
Step 3: After Class – Structured Reflection
Learner Activities:
- Complete reflection activities in Canvas or learning journals
- Respond to prompts like: "What did I apply today? What went well? What will I change or improve next time?"
Your role:
- Review reflections regularly
- Provide individualized feedback that connects experience to learning outcomes
- This closes the learning loop
Remember
Flipped learning is required regardless of course type. Workplace simulation is required in designated pilot courses now and will expand to all programs progressively. Start preparing today—the skills you build with flipped teaching will transfer seamlessly when simulation arrives in your classroom.
Daily Structure Best Practices
Start of Class
- Check pre-work completion (quick assessment)
- Brief review (only if multiple learners struggled)
- Set the day’s focus (connect to workplace simulation context)
During Class
- 75% hands-on time - labs, projects, collaboration
- Float and coach - guide teams, don’t lecture
- Use workplace simulation - job roles, team dynamics, professional scenarios
End of Class
- Synthesis - exit tickets or reflection
- Documentation - ensure teams update their progress
- Prepare for tomorrow - assign next day’s pre-work
Managing Accountability
Don’t reteach pre-work content. Use ICP (In-Class Participation) scores to enforce preparation:
“Your team is counting on you. If you don’t do your pre-work, it will affect your participation score and your readiness to work in a real job.”
Getting Support
- Curriculum Questions → Product Development team
- Technical Issues → Systems and Infrastructure team
- Student Support → Your site’s student services team
- Flipped Classroom Implementation → Tools & Support
Next Steps
Ready to implement flipped classroom? → Start with Workplace Simulation Guide
Want to see how they work together? → View Integration Guide