What you will learn

In this workshop, Joe Dale will showcase a number of different ways of using the free cross-platform tool and app, Flipgrid for practising speaking and listening skills in and out of the TEFL classroom.

He will demonstrate how easy it is for language teachers to record videos as a way of explaining some grammar in a flipped learning approach or posing a question in the target language then asking students to respond with their own videos.

Joe will show how to enable closed captioning and moderation for all videos as well as give personalised video, audio and written feedback to students.

Finally, he will illustrate how Flipgrid can promote creativity through filters, frames, one stop animation and augmented reality.

Workshop Summary

Overview of Flip Grid as an Educational Tool

Joe Dale, an experienced language teacher and independent consultant, introduces Flip Grid, a Microsoft-owned platform enhancing speaking, listening, and feedback skills in education. It’s particularly useful for asynchronous speaking practice, especially during remote learning. Flip Grid creates a private, moderated environment for students to share videos and receive feedback. The workshop aims to teach effective utilisation of Flip Grid’s features, including screen recording, animations, and interactive elements.

Flip Grid’s Structure and Guest Demonstrations

Flip Grid operates on a grid system, allowing teachers to post videos accessible to students via usernames or school email addresses. It facilitates both individual and group learning with options for private or shared access to content. The platform also enables peer feedback. Its flexibility supports up to 10 minutes of video recording for various educational activities. Notably, creative Flip Grid applications like annotating grammar lessons and incorporating Google Earth for interactive learning.

Privacy and Integration with Educational Platforms

Ensuring privacy and security, Flip Grid requires parental consent for student participation and maintains private groups only. Users can join via email or username. The integration with Google Classroom and Microsoft Teams facilitates video sharing and enhances the platform’s educational value. Additionally, Flip Grid offers diverse feedback mechanisms, including text, video, and audio-only options, as well as augmented reality features for an immersive learning experience.

Creating and Sharing Content on Flip Grid

The webinar includes a live demonstration of setting up Flip Grid, creating groups, adding members, and establishing lesson topics. Key features include moderation settings for privacy control, multi-language closed captions for accessibility, and scheduling options for video submissions. The platform’s countdown timer aids in recording preparation, and the sticky notes feature assists in creating structured video content. Users can also share their creations through QR codes, downloads, or cover images.

Student Engagement and Creative Features

Flip Grid provides students with creative tools for personalising their learning experience. Options include background blurring, various filters for anonymity, text additions, music overlays, and direct video drawing. For students uncomfortable with video appearances, the ‘mic only’ option offers an alternative. These features support diverse learning styles and encourage active participation.

Enhancing Global Learning and Exploration

The platform’s screen recording capability, especially when combined with tools like Google Earth, offers an innovative approach to global learning. Teachers can create engaging lessons that blend geography and language learning, encouraging students to describe real-world locations. This feature exemplifies Flip Grid’s capacity to transform educational experiences, making learning interactive and globally connected. Additional resources and workshops are available on the gallery teachers website for extended learning and support.

Reflective Questions

Have a quick think about the reflective questions below in order to get the most out of the workshop:

1. How do you use technology to practise listening and speaking skills?
2. What are your top tips for practising listening and speaking synchronously and asynchronously?
3. What effect has the pandemic had on your students’ speaking skills?

Recommended Further Reading

• Joe Dale – YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/joedale100.
• Flipgrid: https://info.flipgrid.com/.