Flipped classroom for General Zoology II learning, in the Biology program at UNAN-Managua,

Abstract

Flipped Classroom  is  a  teaching  method  whose  objective  is  to  invert  moments  and  roles  of traditional  teaching;  the subject  is offered  through independent study hours  by  the  student,  using Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). Purpose of the research: to implement this method using technological tools to improve learning in the General Zoology II subject, in the first  semester of 2022  of  the  Biology  course  at  the  National  Autonomous  University  of  Nicaragua (UNAN-Managua).  Descriptive  study  with  mixed  approach. 22  third  year  Biology students,  12  Environmental  and  Natural  Resources  Management students,  and  16  teachers, including coordinators of the Majors and director, participated in the study. Surveys and interviews were applied  to  collect information on competencies  and  the  use  of  digital  platforms.  Results:  the participants are above the theoretical value, exceeding the expectations for the application of the flipped  classroom  and  the  threshold  of  basic  digital  competencies  established  by  the  Common Framework  of  Digital  Competence. With respect to the Flipped Classroom Method,  teachers  showed  basic knowledge of its benefits and identified the need to refine skills for its effective implementation. A significant improvement in the quality of learning and optimization of class time was evidenced: 83% can be dedicated to practical activities and/or guided and independent laboratory hours, versus what the traditional system offers (33%). The students presented the products resulting from the activities in the semestral science fair.