Effects of the Flipped Classroom Model on Student Performance for Advanced Placement High School Chemistry Students

This mixed-methods study investigated the effects of the flipped classroom on academic performance of high school advanced placement chemistry students. Student perceptions about the approach were also studied. The control group consisted of students from the 2011-2012 academic year, in which traditional teaching methods were used. The treatment group consisted of students from the 2012-2013 academic year, in which the flipped classroom approach was used. Identical assessments were administered and analyzed through both descriptive statistics and independent t tests. A statistically significant difference was found on all assessments with the flipped class students performing higher on average. In addition, most students had a favorable perception about the flipped classroom noting the ability to pause, rewind, and review lectures, as well as increased individualized learning and increased teacher availability. This contribution is part of a special issue on teaching introductory chemistry in the context of the advanced placement (AP) chemistry course redesign.