ELL+and+Podcasting+in+a+Flipped+Classroom

I feel that ELL’s would benefit from a change in how I introduce content in the classroom. There are numerous benefits to using Podcasts in a flipped classroom. ELL’s would be allowed processing time that they do not get in the classroom due to the usual quick responders and time constraints within the school day. One way to assess learning is by having a student reteach a concept, ELL students are often unable to do so as they have little time to process lesson content and are bogged down with just trying to understand vocabulary. Prior to teaching a new lesson, all students would be required to listen/watch a podcast that introduces important vocabulary and pre-teaches the lesson content. Posting a question they have in a class padlet or wiki, would allow the teacher to access participation and guide the discussion during the upcoming lesson. The teacher is able identify who is struggling and who is ready to move on. By flipping the classroom, ELL students are allowed time, away from peers, to think out their participation and even practice what they are going to contribute in class. The focus in class is then about answering posted questions, and using some real world examples, rather than teacher lecture.

One barrier to using podcasts in a flipped classroom, even if it would benefit our ELL’s, is resistance of teachers who already struggle with demands on their time. Podcasts take a lot of time to prepare for especially if pictures or video are included. Another barrier to using podcasts while flipping the classroom is the lack of access to the internet so that students can view/listen to the podcast and participate in the padlet or wiki. One way to move past this barrier would be to allow extra time for completion of the assignment. By looking at the district pacing guide and ensuring that the podcast is ready at least a week before the assignment will be given, ELL’s have the opportunity to go to the library, a relative’s house, or even use the school computer lab prior to the assignment due date. Many students that do not have computers or internet access at home may at least have a parent with a cell phone and data package. By finding ways to utilize a cell phone for assignment completion, ELL students can move beyond the digital divide.

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