Independent Reading 

The positive relationship of independent reading and student achievement. I spent so long wishing that students would just read without needing to give them a quiz every chapter. I asked students to record themselves reading using Flip and although they were reluctant at first, they were thrilled when they realized it meant they didn't have a quiz.  I know some districts don't support read-alongs at the secondary level so this presents an alternative means to the same end. It is also great for ESL students and slow readers that are worried to read in class.

Recording a Podcast

Podcasts are cool (for now). This is a great opportunity to tap into student interest while assessing speaking and listening skills. The real-world application is clear. Any student interested in audio-engineering, performance or technology will love this app. Podcast units provide great extensions for students demonstrating proficiency beyond expectations. Was the assignment to record a single episode? Challenge your students who complete that with ease to make a second episode or turn it into a series. 

What do Students Think?

"Flipgrid was overall a good experience. It was easy to use and it was helpful if I needed to restart or edit a part, it was easy to do. Also, the recording gave me the ability to edit my work if I needed. It could feel awkward, but recording my response was better than having to present it to the whole class." 

"Flipgrid is not bad. Except it isn't as useful anymore. It was certainly very useful during online school. But because we are all in schools again it isn't really as needed. That doesn't mean it isn't a good site to use; it is. It allows students to vocally and visually express themselves. However many students are not very comfortable with expressing themselves through video. Therefore it's only a good option for some students."

"I think that this was useful over Covid, especially in language classes. I do like that you can rewatch the video if you missed information that may be useful. I do think it's annoying if everyone in the class is using it and everyone is talking over each other. I think it's more helpful and useful if there were actual presentations in class but if there is a circumstance in which this can’t happen I think it's useful."

Developing Digital Literacy

https://www.hollyclark.org/2020/03/24/8-tips-for-creating-great-video-responses-or-commenting/

Developing digital literacy in students is an important part of any modern classroom. Students are interacting with digital media now more than ever. It is important to establish guidelines for good video responses before asking students to engage in a digital dialogue.

https://kaufman.usc.edu/annes-admission-advice-mastering-your-video-response/

Some Universities are even adding video interviews as a feature of admission applications. As educators, we must provide students with meaningful opportunities to interact with these platforms in low-stakes environments before they encounter it for the first time outside of the classroom.

Try it Yourself!

Visit https://info.flip.com/ to create a free account and classroom to get your students started on their first videos.