Technology has greatly influenced the educational sector, not only supplemented in-class processes, but also transformed conventional teaching methods. In this context, the Flipgrid application has emerged as a powerful instrument which amplifies students' participation in learning. Particularly in the realm of mobile learning, Flipgrid has gained significant prominence in educational settings. Flipgrid, a versatile and innovative video discussion platform, has been gaining momentum in the realm of education. It delves into the pedagogical foundations of Flipgrid and provides insights into practical applications, demonstrating how it fosters active engagement, fluency, and effective feedback. By combining the benefits of technology and speaking practice, educators can empower students to become confident and proficient communicators in the digital age. Flipgrid is revolutionizing the way we approach oral communication, providing a platform that encourages students to voice their opinions, collaborate with peers, and enhance their speaking abilities. This article explores the role of Flipgrid in enhancing speaking skills among students. Introduction In an era defined by digital transformation, educators are constantly seeking ways to integrate technology into their teaching methods, catering to the needs and expectations of the modern learner. One such technological innovation that has garnered attention is Flipgrid.
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2. Education for Future: Issues and Challenges – Vol. II
167
ENHANCING SPEAKING SKILLS THROUGH FLIPGRID TECHNOLOGY: A NEW
APPROACH
Dr.M.J.Philomina,
Guest Faculty,
Department of Education,
The Gandhigram Rural Institute (Deemed to
be University), Gandhigram, Dindigul
District, Tamil Nadu – 624 302
Dr.M.Deivam,
Assistant Professor (Contract),
Department of Education,
The Gandhigram Rural Institute (Deemed to
be University), Gandhigram, Dindigul
District, Tamil Nadu – 624 302
Abstract
Technology has greatly influenced the educational sector, not only supplemented in-class
processes, but also transformed conventional teaching methods. In this context, the Flipgrid
application has emerged as a powerful instrument which amplifies students' participation in
learning. Particularly in the realm of mobile learning, Flipgrid has gained significant prominence
in educational settings. Flipgrid, a versatile and innovative video discussion platform, has been
gaining momentum in the realm of education. It delves into the pedagogical foundations of Flipgrid
and provides insights into practical applications, demonstrating how it fosters active engagement,
fluency, and effective feedback. By combining the benefits of technology and speaking practice,
educators can empower students to become confident and proficient communicators in the digital
age. Flipgrid is revolutionizing the way we approach oral communication, providing a platform
that encourages students to voice their opinions, collaborate with peers, and enhance their
speaking abilities. This article explores the role of Flipgrid in enhancing speaking skills among
students.
Keywords: Technology Enabled Learning, Speaking Skills, Language Learning and Digital
Technology
Introduction
In an era defined by digital transformation, educators are constantly seeking ways to integrate
technology into their teaching methods, catering to the needs and expectations of the modern
learner. One such technological innovation that has garnered attention is Flipgrid. This article will
focus on how Flipgrid, a user-friendly video discussion platform, can be leveraged to enhance
speaking skills in the classroom. In a world where effective communication is a crucial skill, the
role of technology in language learning cannot be underestimated. Flipgrid, by fostering active
participation, promoting fluency, and facilitating meaningful feedback, has the potential to
revolutionize the way we teach and learn speaking skills. One of the key benefits of Flipgrid is its
ability to promote active engagement in language learning. When students are asked to speak on
video, they become active participants rather than passive recipients of knowledge. This section
will delve into the ways in which Flipgrid encourages students to articulate their thoughts and ideas,
ultimately enhancing their speaking skills. Moreover, it will highlight how educators can design
prompts and activities that stimulate meaningful discussion and reflection.
The Importance of Speaking Skills in Today's World
In our rapidly evolving world, effective communication skills have become essential. Whether
it's in the workplace, social settings, or personal relationships, the ability to express oneself clearly
and confidently is invaluable. Strong speaking skills not only help individuals convey their ideas,
but they also foster deeper connections with others, promote teamwork, and enable successful
collaboration. While traditional methods of teaching speaking skills have their merits, they often
fall short in providing students with the necessary tools and opportunities to truly develop their
abilities. This is where Flipgrid comes in, offering a dynamic and innovative platform that
empowers students to engage in meaningful conversations and improve their speaking proficiency.
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In the realm of education, speaking skills are a fundamental aspect of effective learning. They
not only facilitate comprehension and knowledge sharing but also empower students to express
their creativity and critical thinking. In the professional sphere, the ability to communicate clearly
and persuasively is often the differentiator between career success and stagnation. Public speaking,
negotiation, and interpersonal skills are crucial in diverse fields, from sales and marketing to
leadership and management. Moreover, in our digital age, virtual and remote work environments
demand robust communication skills to bridge geographical gaps and build trust among team
members. Being able to navigate these diverse and dynamic communication contexts is essential
for both personal and professional growth in today's interconnected, information-driven world.
Flipgrid Technology Enhances Speaking Skills
Flipgrid transforms the way students approach speaking by incorporating technology into the
learning process. With its user-friendly interface and customizable features, Flipgrid provides an
interactive and engaging experience for students of all ages. By leveraging the power of video,
Flipgrid allows students to express themselves authentically and confidently, breaking down the
barriers that traditional speech activities might impose. Using Flipgrid, students can participate in
video discussions and respond to prompts or questions posed by their teachers. This unique
approach encourages students to think critically, articulate their thoughts clearly, and present their
ideas in a concise and coherent manner. By recording their responses, students have the opportunity
to review and reflect on their speaking abilities, identifying areas for improvement and growth.
Research Studies on Flipgrid
The study concluded that the application Flipgrid significantly improved students' speaking
skills. Students reported finding the platform easy to use and felt that it aided their academic
achievement and communication abilities. Despite initial challenges with the technology, students
gradually became more comfortable and confident in using Flipgrid to create videos, enhancing
their communication and contributing to learning engagement and learning opportunities (Lai, T.
T., et al. 2021). The study indicates that Flipgrid is an effective tool for EFL teachers to improve
English speaking skills. It's easy to use, includes engaging features, and is seen as suitable for both
online and offline learning scenarios. Overall, teachers expressed positive intention to use Flipgrid
in their teaching activities (Apoko, T. W., et al. 2022). The study found that using the Flipgrid app
reduced English language speaking anxiety among Vietnamese high school students learning
English as a foreign language. The majority of students also showed positive attitudes towards
using Flipgrid for learning English speaking skills (Tuyet, T. T. B., & Khang, N. D. 2020). The
study found that students generally had a positive response to using the online platform Flipgrid in
their speaking classes, citing ease of use, accessibility, and interactive features as benefits.
However, some issues were raised, including feelings of competitiveness, concerns about
equipment, and worries about work being copied by others. Despite these challenges, the overall
response to Flipgrid was more positive than negative (Syahrizal, T., & Pamungkas, M. Y. 2021).
The research aimed to understand students' perceptions of this method for improving speaking
skills and to determine how Flipgrid benefits students in this regard. Data were collected via
questionnaires, interviews, pre- and post-tests, and analysis of the videos. The study found that
students' learning experiences were generally positive, they felt more confident expressing their
views, and they found Flipgrid user-friendly and beneficial for interaction (Vurdien, R. 2023).
Tips for Effectively Using Flipgrid for Speaking Practice
To make the most out of Flipgrid for speaking practice, here are some tips to keep in mind:
1. Set clear expectations: Clearly communicate the objectives and guidelines for Flipgrid
activities. This will help students understand what is expected of them and give them a sense of
purpose.
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2. Provide prompt variety: Offer a range of prompts that cater to different learning styles and
interests. This will keep students engaged and encourage them to explore various topics and
perspectives.
3. Foster a supportive environment: Encourage a positive and inclusive classroom culture where
students feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and ideas. Emphasize the importance of
respect and constructive feedback.
4. Incorporate peer collaboration: Encourage students to watch and comment on each other's
video responses. This not only promotes collaboration but also allows students to learn from one
another and gain different perspectives.
5. Utilize self-reflection: Encourage students to review and reflect on their own video responses.
This self-assessment will help them identify areas for improvement and set personal goals for
their speaking skills development.
Integrating Flipgrid into Educational Settings for Speaking Skill Development
Flipgrid can be seamlessly integrated into various educational settings to enhance speaking
skills development. Whether it's in a traditional classroom, a virtual learning environment, or even
for online tutoring sessions, Flipgrid provides a versatile platform that adapts to different teaching
methods and instructional objectives. Teachers can incorporate Flipgrid into their lesson plans by
assigning video responses as part of class discussions, presentations, or even assessments. This not
only encourages active participation from students but also provides valuable insights into their
understanding and mastery of the subject matter. Furthermore, Flipgrid can be used to facilitate
peer-to-peer interactions, allowing students to collaborate on projects, give feedback to their
classmates, and engage in meaningful discussions. This collaborative aspect not only improves
speaking skills but also fosters teamwork and empathy among students.
Flipgrid Alternatives for Developing Speaking Skills
While Flipgrid is a powerful tool for developing speaking skills, there are also alternative
platforms that educators can explore. These alternatives offer similar features and benefits, catering
to different preferences and needs. Some popular alternatives to Flipgrid include:
1. VoiceThread: VoiceThread allows students to create multimedia presentations and engage in
asynchronous discussions. It offers a variety of interactive features, such as audio, video, and
text-based comments.
2. Seesaw: Seesaw is an online platform that enables students to document their learning through
a digital portfolio. It provides a range of tools for students to capture and reflect on their speaking
skills.
3. Vocaroo: Vocaroo is a simple and user-friendly voice recording tool. It allows students to record
and share their audio responses, making it an ideal option for quick speaking practice.
Flipgrid Technology Updates and Future Developments
As technology continues to advance, Flipgrid continues to evolve and adapt to meet the
changing needs of educators and students. The developers behind Flipgrid regularly release updates
and new features, introducing exciting enhancements that further enhance the platform's
capabilities. One such update is the integration of augmented reality (AR) into Flipgrid. This feature
allows students to bring their video responses to life by overlaying digital content onto their videos.
This innovative addition not only adds a new dimension to speaking practice but also encourages
creativity and enhances student engagement. Looking ahead, Flipgrid is committed to expanding
its resources and community, providing educators with a wealth of support and collaboration
opportunities. From professional development courses to a vibrant online community, Flipgrid
aims to empower educators to effectively leverage its technology for maximum impact on speaking
skills development.
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Flipgrid Resources and Community for Speaking Skill Development
To support educators in their journey of using Flipgrid for speaking skill development, Flipgrid
provides a wealth of resources and a thriving community to tap into. The Flipgrid website offers a
comprehensive collection of tutorials, lesson plans, and best practices, allowing educators to
explore and implement Flipgrid effectively. Additionally, educators can join the Flipgrid Educator
Community, a platform where they can connect with like-minded professionals, share ideas, and
seek advice. This community-driven approach fosters collaboration and continuous learning,
ensuring that educators stay up to date with the latest trends and strategies in speaking skills
development.
Advantages of Flipgrid
1. Increased student engagement: Flipgrid allows students to create and share videos, which
can increase their engagement and motivation in the learning process. Students can also view and
respond to their classmates' videos, which can promote collaboration and discussion. 2. Enhanced
communication skills: Flipgrid provides students with opportunities to practice their
communication skills, including speaking, listening, and providing feedback. This can help
students develop their language proficiency and confidence in using the language. 3. Flexibility
and accessibility: Flipgrid can be accessed from any device with an internet connection, making it
a flexible and accessible tool for both teachers and students. It can also be used in a variety of
learning environments, including in-person, hybrid, and fully online. 4. Personalized learning:
Flipgrid allows teachers to provide personalized feedback to students, which can help them identify
their strengths and areas for improvement. It also allows students to express their ideas and opinions
in their own unique way, which can promote creativity and individuality. 5. Easy to use: Flipgrid
is a user-friendly tool that requires minimal training and technical expertise. Teachers and students
can quickly create and share videos, making it a convenient and efficient tool for teaching and
learning.
Limitations: 1. Limited interaction: While Flipgrid allows students to record and share their
videos, it may not provide the same level of interaction as face-to-face speaking activities. Students
may miss out on the nonverbal cues and feedback that come with in-person communication. 2.
Technical difficulties: Flipgrid requires a stable internet connection and access to a device with a
camera and microphone. Technical difficulties can be frustrating for both teachers and students and
may disrupt the learning process. 3. Privacy concerns: Flipgrid requires students to record and share
their videos online, which may raise privacy concerns for some students and parents. Teachers
should ensure that they have obtained appropriate consent and taken the necessary measures to
protect student privacy. 4. Limited assessment: While Flipgrid can provide valuable feedback to
students, it may not be suitable for formal assessment purposes. Teachers may need to supplement
Flipgrid with other assessment methods to ensure that they are accurately assessing student
language proficiency.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Flipgrid technology offers a powerful platform for developing speaking skills in
an engaging and interactive way. By incorporating Flipgrid into educational settings, educators can
provide students with the opportunity to express themselves authentically, collaborate with peers,
and enhance their speaking abilities. The importance of speaking skills in today's world cannot be
overstated, and Flipgrid addresses this need by revolutionizing the way we approach oral
communication. Through video discussions and customizable features, Flipgrid empowers students
to become confident speakers while fostering a collaborative learning environment. As educators,
it is our responsibility to equip our students with the necessary skills to succeed in an ever-changing
world. By embracing Flipgrid technology, we can ignite a passion for communication, amplify
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student voices, and cultivate a generation of articulate and confident individuals ready to make their
mark on the world. So, let's embrace Flipgrid and watch as speaking skills soar to new heights.
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7. Cite: APA 7th
Editon
Malarvizhi.M, Meenakshi.R, Shirley Moral, Vellaichamy.K and Vincent
Rajasekar.F. (2023). Education for Future: Issues and Challenges Vol II. In
Philomina.M.J, & Deivam.M (Eds.), Enhancing Speaking Skills through Flipgrid
Technology: A New Approach (pp. 167-171). Mithra Dev Publications.