Bob Jones Academy Makes Classroom Changes

Submitted by Bob Jones Academy

Ninth grade students are seeing big changes at Bob Jones Academy as teachers introduce iPads and flipped classrooms for all core classes this year.

After a small pilot study last year, BJA is now conducting a larger evaluation of the use of iPads and the flipped classroom methodology where all students enrolled in core 9th-grade classes – Algebra I, English 9, Physical Science, World Geography and World History – will use an iPad with eTextbooks installed. 

In a flipped classroom, students watch lectures at home and work with the teacher on practice and application of concepts during the class hour. The iPad enables students to watch lectures at home, take quizzes online during class and use its other features to enhance learning. 

Core content for the classes remains the same. This technology will allow teachers to implement the flipped classroom differently and no two flipped classrooms will look the same.

In last year’s pilot study, students made academic gains. In addition to academic gains, this year teachers hope to increase interaction with students as they develop more effective use of technology.

The evaluation is being conducted in conjunction with BJU Press, a leading publisher of textbooks for Christian and home schools, that seeks to encourage Christian character in students and promote academic excellence through the provision of K–12 educational materials and support services.