Video Talks and a Flipped Classroom: Rebecca Balcarcel

I have 8000 subscribers now and over one million views of my youtube channel with six-minute video lectures.

These are short, casual talks on poems and stories, as well as writing techniques. They help students make sense of readings and writing assignments.

In the classroom, I make each session an active experience during which the students produce an artifact. I use a problem-based approach and the flipped classroom. Students actively create in each class session as they apply the concepts we are learning. I present a technique or idea through video, Power Point, or artifacts. Then students actively analyze. Then they try out the technique on their own. Students produce writing each session, learning by doing. They also share their work and receive immediate feedback.

I’m also aware of competencies that students will need in their careers and lives as citizens. I emphasize which competencies each assignment addresses.