Show Me What You're Thinking: Using Student-Generated Photography to Flip the Political Science Classroom

Abstract

University instructors have increasingly turned to flipped classrooms as a way to promote engaged, student-centered learning. At the same time, scholars across disciplines have shown the power of visual assignments for developing critical thinking and achieving higher level learning. In this article I discuss a flipped class design that uses student-generated photography in the Political science classroom to cement core concepts, help students critically analyze and evaluate academic theory, encourage students to identify class concepts in their daily lives, and develop a dynamic learning environment that encourages active participation both in and outside of the class.

Keywords:

• Flipped classroom
• student photography
• engaged learning
• visual assignments

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Melanie Bowers

Melanie Bowers is an Assistant Professor in the Departments of Political Science and Public Policy and Administration. Her research focuses on urban politics, LGBT politics, and the ways that policy reinforces and disrupts inequalities.