A New Flipped Classroom Model: Deriving from the Experiences of Teachers and Students in Teaching/ Learning Patterns and Algebra

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the effect of the flipped classroom model on Grade 6 students’ performance in mathematics in Patterns and Algebra. It also explored the experiences of teachers and students during its implementation as a basis for developing a flipped classroom instructional model.
Specifically, the study investigated the effects of the flipped classroom model on students’ procedural fluency, problem-solving skills, and conceptual understanding. It also compared the mathematics performance of students taught using the flipped classroom approach with that of students taught using traditional instructional methods. In addition, it explored teachers’ experiences in enhancing their Mathematical Content Knowledge (MCK) and analyzed students’ learning experiences that contributed to improved mathematical performance.
A sequential mixed-methods design was employed, integrating quantitative and qualitative approaches. The quantitative phase involved 216 Grade 6 learners from intact classes. Their mathematics performance was assessed using a 60-item multiple-choice test administered as pre-test and post-test to measure procedural fluency, problem-solving skills, and conceptual understanding in Patterns and Algebra.
The qualitative phase employed a grounded theory approach to generate insights to inform the development of a flipped classroom model. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with twelve (12) students, purposively selected based on their performance levels (highest, middle, and lowest scorers) to represent varied learning experiences. Additionally, ten (10) mathematics teachers who implemented either the traditional or flipped classroom approach were interviewed to explore their instructional experiences and the influence of the strategy on their Mathematical Content Knowledge (MCK). Data were analyzed thematically to identify emerging patterns in instructional strategies, classroom engagement, reflective practices, and learning experiences.
Findings revealed that students exposed to the flipped classroom model demonstrated significant improvements in procedural fluency, problem-solving skills, and conceptual understanding compared to their pre-test results and to students taught through traditional instruction. Teachers reported enhanced confidence in lesson planning, deeper engagement with mathematical concepts, and improved facilitation of interactive learning activities. Students expressed increased motivation, engagement, and conceptual understanding due to pre-class preparation and collaborative in-class problem-solving. Despite challenges such as limited access to technology and time management issues, these were addressed through adaptive instructional strategies.