The Acrobatics of Flipping: Reorienting the Learning Experience of the First Accounting Course

Abstract

The flipped learning experience provides learners with pre-class activities that allow them to understand subject matter. This understanding is subsequently use during the class to develop higher-level appreciations of the subject through problem-based and collaborative learning activities. The reoriented roles and dynamics of learning afforded by flipping provide opportunities for active learner-centered learning; however, these opportunities are sometimes not considered or underappreciated. This chapter rethinks the structure and dynamics of flipped courses and explores the instructional possibilities offered. In particular, it considers the opportunities and challenges of flipped instruction and examines the author's experience in flipping an Introduction to Accounting course. The chapter provides suggestions on how instructors and learners can best take advantage of the opportunities created when the learning experience is flipped.