#Trend: Igniting 21st Century Skills for the Future

Flipped Learning, among the numerous teaching methods, is what intrigues 21st-century learners the most. Having used it numerous times in the classroom, it has become one of my favorites. By using Flipped Learning, I have been able to enhance my learners’ communication skills, especially for those who are shy to speak in class. It has also fostered a love for learning, emphasizing the importance of lifelong learning in this age and time. Additionally, it helps learners take ownership of their learning process.

Definition of Flipped Learning:Flipped Learning is an instructional strategy where traditional lecture and homework elements are reversed. Students first explore new content at home, typically through videos or readings, and then use classroom time for engaging in interactive activities, discussions, and collaborative projects that reinforce and apply the learned material.

Tools for Flipped Learning

Edpuzzle: Allows teachers to create interactive video lessons with embedded questions and track student engagement.

Khan Academy: Offers a vast library of instructional videos and practice exercises in various subjects.

Google Classroom: Facilitates the distribution of educational content and assignments, as well as classroom discussions.

Screencast-O-Matic: A screen recording tool for creating instructional videos.

Nearpod: An interactive lesson platform that includes videos, quizzes, and collaborative activities.

Microsoft Flip: Enables students to create and share short videos, fostering interactive discussions. (Note: Microsoft Flip will no longer be in operation from September. I call Microsoft Flip the educational TikTok.)

Padlet: A digital bulletin board where students can post notes, images, links, and videos to collaborate on assignments.

Skills Developed Through Flipped Learning

Critical Thinking: Engaging with content at home allows students to analyze and reflect on information, fostering deeper understanding and critical evaluation.

Self-Directed Learning: Students learn to take responsibility for their own learning, managing their time and resources effectively.

Collaboration: Classroom time is used for group activities and discussions, enhancing teamwork and communication skills.

Communication: Interactive classroom sessions encourage students to express their ideas and questions, improving verbal and written communication.

Technological Proficiency: Utilizing various digital tools for learning content and completing assignments enhances students’ tech skills.

Problem-Solving: Hands-on classroom activities and projects require students to apply knowledge and solve real-world problems creatively and efficiently.

Adaptability: Flipped Learning teaches students to adapt to different learning environments and methods, preparing them for the diverse challenges of the future.

Research Skills: Independently exploring topics at home encourages students to develop strong research abilities and information literacy.

Flipped Learning will help you elicit information from learners rather than just relying on traditional tests. These skills are essential for 21st-century learners, equipping them for success in both academic and professional settings.

At Topflighters Academy, we are available for teacher trainings on 21st-century teaching methodologies.

Don’t forget to like, comment, share, follow, and save this post if you found it helpful!

How have you incorporated Flipped Learning in your classroom, and what benefits have you observed?

Share your experiences in the comments below!

DAY 1 VR/AR CLASSROOM EXPERIENCE

Dear Educators,

Welcome to an exciting journey into the future of education!

My fascination with VR began in 2020 when I first encountered its potential to enhance learning and make lessons more engaging through gamification (I absolutely adore bringing fun into the classroom). I witnessed the thrill of VR games during the Fun Days organized for children at my previous workplace, and it left a lasting impression.

When I introduced VR to my class for the first time, it caused quite a stir. The sight of the VR box turned the classroom upside down, igniting curiosity among the students. They were eager to explore it and understand how it could benefit their academic journey.

Having researched how VR/AR can shape the future of education, I’ve decided to embark on this 14-day exploration with you.

Your curiosity and dedication to evolving educational practices are the guiding lights of this endeavor.

In this exclusive newsletter series, our goal is crystal clear: to uncover the vast potential of VR/AR in reshaping and revolutionizing classroom learning. Together, we’ll dive into these transformative technologies, discovering the many ways they can redefine engagement, interaction, and understanding in educational settings.

Why are we so enthusiastic about this journey? Because we firmly believe that VR/AR aren’t just tools; they’re gateways to new dimensions of learning. Through these technologies, we aim to spark inspiration, nurture creativity, and ignite a passion for learning that goes beyond the usual boundaries.

According to PCMag Encyclopedia, Augmented Reality/ Virtual Reality refers to computer-generated simulations that integrate the real world (AR) or are entirely self-contained (VR). AR applications let you move around in the real world. With VR, you have to remain in the same location because you cannot see your surroundings.

VR replaces your existing world with digital content e.g, being inside of a thing to study it rather than reading a book or watching a video on the internet. it involves enhancing the real world with digital elements.

AR uses our environment as a window to our digital world e.g Microsoft Hololens, with Hololens, you can pre-visualize anything before you buy it.

Do you know that VR/AR has its origin dated to centuries ago? Watch this video on the Evolution of Extended Reality (XR)

Importance and Benefits of Integrating VR/AR in Education

Enhanced Engagement:

VR/AR technologies have a remarkable ability to capture students’ attention in ways traditional methods might struggle to achieve. By immersing learners in interactive experiences, these technologies create a captivating learning environment. Students actively participate and engage with educational content, making lessons more stimulating and enjoyable.

Experiential Learning:

One of the most significant advantages of VR/AR in education is its capacity to facilitate experiential learning. Students can delve into immersive environments that simulate real-life scenarios, enabling hands-on exploration of complex concepts. This hands-on approach enhances comprehension and retention, making learning more tangible and memorable.

Accessibility to Complex Topics:

VR/AR serves as a powerful tool to simplify abstract or intricate subjects. By visualizing complex concepts in an easily understandable format, students can grasp challenging topics more effectively. For instance, abstract scientific theories or historical events can be brought to life, allowing students to visualize and interact with the content, fostering a deeper understanding.

Real-World Applications:

Beyond the classroom, VR/AR technologies mirror real-world applications across various industries. Integrating these technologies in education equips students with skills applicable to technology-driven careers. Whether it’s experiencing architectural designs in VR or practicing medical procedures through simulations, students gain practical insights and prepare for future job opportunities in fields that increasingly rely on technological advancements.

Have you imagined yourself studying about your body cells while you are in your cells? Sounds good and funny right?

By incorporating VR/AR in education, educators pave the way for students to not only learn but to experience, engage, and prepare for a future where immersive technologies play a pivotal role in various aspects of life and work.

As we wrap up our introduction to the captivating world of VR/AR in education, let’s carry this excitement forward into our journey ahead. Tomorrow, we delve deeper into the technology that underpins these transformative experiences. Get ready to uncover more insights into the immersive realms of Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality. Until then, keep the curiosity alive and let’s continue to envision the classroom of tomorrow together!

Topflighters Academy

Technology Integration Company

🌟 Exclusive Access: Join Our 14-Day VR/AR Classroom Experience! 🚀


Get ready to unlock the future of education! We’re thrilled to offer you an exclusive opportunity to participate in our 14-day Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) Classroom Experience.

📆 Dates: Monday 8th – Monday 22nd January, 2023
🎯 Focus: Explore, Engage, Excel in VR/AR Education

🌐 What’s Included:

  • Introduction to VR/AR Technology
  • Strategies for Seamless Integration in Education
  • Interactive Sessions and Practical Demonstrations
  • Hands-on Experience with Cutting-Edge Tools

🔐 Subscriber Access:
Secure your spot now by subscribing to our newsletter! Exclusive access to this transformative learning experience awaits. Click https://forms.gle/181hHWG84KD29dKAA to subscribe and join us on this immersive educational journey.

FAQs:

Q: Who can participate in this program?
A: This program is open to educators, school administrators, and anyone passionate about leveraging technology in education.

Q: What equipment is required?
A: A compatible device and internet access are recommended for optimal participation.

Q: Will there be ongoing support during the program?
A: Absolutely! Our dedicated support team will be available to assist with any queries or technical assistance throughout the 14-day program.

Got questions? We’re here to help! Reach out to our dedicated support team for any queries or assistance.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to revolutionize your teaching or learning methods. Subscribe today and be at the forefront of educational innovation!

You have a FREE gift, get one of Teacher Funke’s ebook for FREE here: https://selar.co/TheBasedClassroom

Don’t forget to leave a review after reading!

Warm regards,
Funke Akpan

Founder, Topflighters Academy

+2348186504445

Empowering Learners for the Future Through Based Learning

Elementary teacher and her students using laptop during computer class at school.

Empowering Learners for the Future Through Based Learning

As we step into an increasingly interconnected and technology-driven world, it becomes vital for educators to prepare their learners for the challenges and opportunities of the future. One of the most effective ways to achieve this goal is by embracing various forms of based learning in the classroom. Based learning approaches, such as game-based learning, connection-based learning, and flipped learning, have proven to be transformative in education, fostering engagement, critical thinking, and creativity among students.

1. Game-Based Learning:
Game-based learning leverages gamification principles to make the learning experience more interactive and enjoyable. By integrating educational content into games, teachers can engage learners in problem-solving, decision-making, and skill development while keeping them motivated and focused. The element of competition, achievement, and rewards in games makes the learning process more appealing, leading to better retention and understanding of the subject matter.

Through game-based learning, students can explore complex concepts, experiment with different strategies, and learn from both successes and failures. This approach enhances their problem-solving abilities and encourages a growth mindset where they embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. Additionally, game-based learning can foster collaboration and teamwork as students often work together to achieve common goals within the games.

← Back

Thank you for your response. ✨

2. Connection-Based Learning:
Connection-based learning emphasizes building meaningful connections between learners, educators, and the outside world. It recognizes the value of networks and collaborative learning environments in today’s interconnected society. By utilizing technology and social platforms, teachers can create opportunities for students to interact with experts, professionals, and other learners worldwide, exposing them to diverse perspectives and experiences.

Through connection-based learning, learners gain real-world insights, improve their communication skills, and develop a global awareness that is crucial in the modern workforce. The connections made during this learning process can open doors to future opportunities, such as mentorships, internships, and even career prospects. Moreover, learners develop empathy and a sense of belonging as they interact with people from different backgrounds and cultures, fostering a more inclusive and compassionate society.

A Lesson Done With Connection Based Learning

3. Flipped Learning:
Flipped learning reverses the traditional classroom model, where students learn new concepts at home through pre-recorded videos or readings and engage in active discussions, problem-solving, and application of knowledge during class time. This approach allows students to learn at their own pace, giving them the flexibility to review and grasp difficult concepts before the in-person sessions.

Flipped learning promotes student autonomy and responsibility for their education, encouraging them to take ownership of their learning journey. It also allows teachers to personalize instruction based on individual needs and interests, leading to more profound learning outcomes. During in-class activities, educators can facilitate collaborative projects, critical thinking exercises, and hands-on experiences, maximizing the benefits of face-to-face interactions.

An example of a flipped lesson!
Video Response From a Pupil

Participate in the Forthcoming Webinar:

To empower educators with knowledge and skills in embracing these based learning approaches, we are excited to announce our upcoming webinar on “Empowering Learners for the Future: Embracing Game-Based Learning, Connection-Based Learning, and Flipped Learning in the Classroom.”

Date: Friday 1st – Sunday 3rd September, 2023
Time: 6:00 pm daily

During this webinar, expert speaker will delve into the principles and implementation strategies of each based learning approach. She will share successful case studies, practical tips, and resources to help teachers integrate these methods seamlessly into their classrooms.

Webinar Highlights:

  • Game-Based Learning: Strategies for incorporating games into the curriculum, selecting appropriate educational games, and assessing learning outcomes.
  • Connection-Based Learning: Building and nurturing connections within and beyond the classroom, leveraging technology for global collaboration, and facilitating virtual guest speakers.
  • Flipped Learning: Creating engaging and informative pre-recorded content, designing effective in-class activities, and personalized instruction techniques.

Webinar Benefits:
All participants will receive the following as appreciation for their active participation:

  • An exclusive e-book on Based Learning Strategies for the Future Classroom.
  • A Professional Development (PD) certificate that can be added to their LinkedIn profile, showcasing their commitment to advancing education.
  • Access to valuable study materials and resources to aid their continued professional growth.

Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to upgrade your teaching methodologies and empower your learners for the challenges of tomorrow. Register now for the webinar using the following link:

To participate in the 3-Days Webinar https://selar.co/3daysPDforeducators

Participation in Game-Based Learning ONLY: https://selar.co/gamebasedlearningwebinar Bonus: You will be taught how to monetize your gaming skills.

Connection-Based Learning ONLY: https://selar.co/Connectionbasedlearningwebinar

Flipped Lesson ONLY https://selar.co/flippedlearningwebinar

The early birds offer (40% discount) ends on 10th August 2023

Join us as we embark on this journey to revolutionize education and create a future-ready generation of learners!

For more details, reach out to Teacher Funke here: https://wa.me/message/NTYOCQXCDGQFB1

Project Based Learning 1.0

FRIDAY 4TH & SATURDAY 5TH NOVEMBER, 2022

1667577600

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PROJECT-BASED LEARNING 1.0

This Online Project-Based Training is organized by Topflighter Academy.

John Dewey once said, ‘If we teach today’s students as we taught yesterday’s, we rob them of tomorrow.’ The children of the 21st Century need not to be taught as children in the previous generations.

This training is aimed at equipping educators with the knowledge needed to make teaching fun, engaging and exciting to the learners. Project-Based Learning can’t be taken out of the classroom if we truly want to have an engaging class, hence the need to attend this online event.

It is also expedient to note that the children of the 21st Century are global citizens and as such, their educators need to be equipped too with the needed knowledge and facilities. During this training, the UN SDGs will be fully discussed and highlighted in order to assist in the necessary knowledge to raise global citizens who will solve problems locally, globally and digitally.

Register here: https://bit.ly/TopflighterPBLConf

MEET OUR SPEAKERS

Ayoyinka Owairu


Strategic, with a bias for Administration, Leadership and Management especially in the educational sector.

Business Development, Organisational Structure, Systems, and Processes, are my forte and I have a passion and expertise for building effective high-performing teams and cultures that drive organisational growth.

I have been leading strategic initiatives, developing and promoting improvement strategies leading to raised standards, especially in the management and educational sector, developing business growth strategies and evaluating and reviewing best administrative and managerial practices for over 2 decades.

I have been consulting and training in the management and education sector for 16 years. I have over 20+ years of experience as a key decision-maker, policy maker and stakeholder with board-level credibility.

I am passionate about effectiveness and efficiency in the workplace and goal driven with doggedness for creating excellence in the workplace.

I have taught with top-level responsibilities which include, systems and structural definitions, design and implementation of programs to ensure delivery of organizational goals and targets and equipping and mentoring top-level staff. Creating an organisational structure that reflects corporate values and enables systems, structures and processes to work effectively in line with cultures and visions.

As an educationist, I am deft at the development and implementation of the broad and relevant curriculum both local and International which embraces the school specialisms I love developing strategic processes and benchmark systems to monitor progress, raise standards and ensure a continuous and consistent school-wide focus on student achievement and school standards.

As a business person when I am not training or directing operations, I am turning my passion for profiting at INHERBOX OUTLET, accessories and jewellery shop for women and the men that adore them.

With a strong desire and passion to raise champions when I am not working, I empower women and young men to become all they can be through my platforms Master Your Brilliance and KINSMEN.

I coach, train, equip, empower and mentor. Raising Standards and Creating Impact.

ABHILASHA SINGH


I am working as a Principal in Shining Star International School, Abu Dhabi -an Indian Curriculum school in UAE. I am an MIE Expert -Cohort selected by Microsoft Education. I Am UAE Ambassador and lead facilitator for the Climate Action Project 2020. As a Head of the institution, I drive change and set a growth mindset among staff and students through a visionary plan. 

I am trained in International Inspection Skills and have earned the School Inspection Competency Certificate from Tribal Group, UK and an Internal Auditor from the International Center of Assessments Excellence. I am also the country Ambassador for T4 Education.

I also represent Dubai as an Ambassador for SDGs for Children, an international organization working to achieve Global Goals by initiating projects with school students. A TEDx and GESS Speaker, I am a national-level Handball and Basketball player. Now I train to run marathons and am an avid cyclist having participated in many open competitions.


I have had the honour of co-hosting the Microsoft Education Tweet Meet on Twitter in March and April’20.  I was Project Amplifier for Take Action Project under Take Action Global, a 6 weeks duration international project connecting more than 1500 classrooms around the world celebrating the 75th year of UN and the collective responsibilities of individuals. This project is an initiative of Innovation Lab Schools- founded by Koen Timmers and Dr. Jennifer Williams. I recently was part of the backend team co-moderating the Facebook Live streaming Channel of the biggest online teachers’ conference called the T4 Education hosted by Mr. Vikas Pota. I am also the country Ambassador for T4 Education 2022-23. I represent UNA-UAE as Ambassador for SDGs.

I am on the Advisory Board of Alpha School of Life Skills, Mumbai. Connect Aid has recognized me as the Top 100 SDG influencers using social media to spread and take action for UN SDGs.

I have completed a Leadership and Management certificate from Harvard School of Education in collaboration with Harvard Business School in Leading Change, Leading Schools and Leading People.
Awarded the Most Inspiring Leader 2020 by P Square International. Am pursuing M.Ed in Advanced Teaching from the University of the Peoples, USA and an Innovative Leader Award’21 from Ek Updesh, Delhi supported by Niti Aayog and Ministry of Aayush, FIT India, Ministry of Education UAE, Skill Indi- NSDC.

Prince Olusegun Michael Adeniyi


Prince Olusegun Adeniyi is a multi-award-winning Artist-cum-Art Educator. He possesses a genuine spirit of collaboration and has spent over two decades giving children access to the best, most stimulating and most-rewarding artistic engagements. He is passionate about the integration of SDGs in art lessons, most importantly, fostering holistic and inclusive education through STEAM. His projects have been novel and groundbreaking. He has a track record of successful achievements in the field of art education at both national and global levels, which include: Cambridge Dedicated Teacher Award 2022 Finalist; Global Teacher Prize 2021 Finalist; Lifetime Achievement Award (International Category), 2021 Green Difference Awards by Project Green School, USA; David Shepherd Award 2021, Global Canvas Art Competition by David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation (DSWF), London; President’s Teachers and School Excellence Award, 2019; Microsoft Certified Educator; Wakelet Ambassador/Community Leader; TeachSDGs Ambassador; MIE Expert/Trainer 2022/2023, to mention but a few.
Prince Olusegun is committed to raising the standard of art education, advancing the learning field of Art and inspiring the next generations of artists and art lovers who will be innovative thinkers and global citizens. He was selected $1 Million Global Teacher Prize 2021 Finalist for “placing his school on the map for artistic excellence”. He was recently awarded the 1st Runner up- Best Teacher (Private) in Nigeria.
Read his Global Teacher Prize inspirational story at: https://www.globalteacherprize.org/person?id=15048.
Check out his students’ sustainability projects at: https://linktr.ee/calebsteamhub
View the artistic engagements and success stories in 2021 at: https://youtu.be/bskgxYtsr1I
Learn more about Adeniyi at: https://linktr.ee/olusegunadeniyi

Bhavna Mathew


I have been teaching and mentoring Primary years learners in several IB schools of Gurgaon for 18 years. I have worked in manifold capacities and roles as an IBPYP Practitioner.
Currently, I am a Primary School Service Coordinator and English Support Facilitator at Pathways World School. I hold a Masters in English literature and a Bachelors in Education. I’m a certified Montessori Early Childhood Educator. Furthermore, in pursuit of my goal as an educationist, I became a Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert, Flipgrid enthusiast, Adobe Creative Educator, Seesaw, Wakelet, and Teach SDG Ambassador, Global School Advocate and ISTE Community Leader.
Being passionate about ‘Global Citizenship and International Mindedness’, I have facilitated and participated in numerous Global Goals projects to promote 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals. I have been a presenter at numerous prestigious platforms & have created an Educator Club #DesiretoLearn . I conduct Book ClubPDs, Twitter Chats, and workshops for educators worldwide. I’m a visionary and a lifelong learner who believes in transforming education through Global Collaborations.
I have been recognised for my work Internationally and Nationally through the prestigious awards – IPN INSPIRE Awards- Global Collaboration Award 2021, ISTE ‘Global Collaboration Network’ 2021 and ’20 to Watch’ Award 2022.

Teacher Funke Akpan


Akpan Funke popularly known as as Teacher Funke. I am an experienced educator with over thirteen (13) years of teaching experience.

I have worked in various capacities as a K-12 teacher, Head of the Nursery Department, Editorial board member etc.
I am currently studying the English language at the prestigious University of Lagos (Nigeria). In order to provide quality services in my profession, I became an Edpuzzle Coach and a Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert.

I am of the belief that education should be beyond academics and this made me introduce Connection Based Learning in my classroom where my learners can connect with different classrooms from all over the world. From being an Empatico educator who spreads kindness and empathy to children in the school community, I was awarded an Empatico Ambassador.

I am also a Google Digital Skills, an Adobe Creative Educator, Digital Citizenship Tutor, Social and Emotional Learning Activist, Black Girls Tech Summit Ambassador and currently undergoing a program as an SDGs Advocate for Nigeria.

Over the years, I have facilitated trainings, webinars and workshops on Project-Based Learning, 21st Century Teaching Methodologies, Digital Citizenship Education, Social and Emotional Learning etc

I am the founder of Topflighter Academy. Topflighter Academy is an educational institution that provides educators with training on 21st Century Teaching tools, methodologies and strategies. We also offer services on Digital Citizenship Education and Social and Emotional Learning.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

LET YOUR FRIENDS, COLLEAGUES & PARTNERS KNOW YOU’LL BE AT THE TRAINING!

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