The effect of flipped class on 4th graders' science achievement and attitudes

This study investigates the effects of the flipped classroom model on students' academic success, retention of information and attitudes towards science lesson. Thus, the flipped classroom model was applied in the 'Properties of Matter' unit of the 4th grade Science course. The research was designed in accordance with mixed method and explanatory design was used. Qualitative and quantitative findings obtained by means of different methods were discussed collectively by comparing their similarities and differences in the discussion and conclusion sections. The study involved a total of 32 students, 16 of which were in the experimental group and 16 in the control group. The qualitative data of the research were collected by means of semi-structured interview forms and students' diaries while achievement test and scale of attitudes towards the science lesson were used for the collection of quantitative data. The instruments used in the study were developed by the researcher. For the analysis of quantitative data, two-way ANOVA, dependent groups t-test and independent groups ttest were used for measuring academic achievement. For the analysis of attitudes scores, Mann-Whitney U and Wilcoxon Signed Ranks tests were applied. Qualitative data were content analyzed. As a result of the research, it was found that the model created a significant difference in academic achievement and permanence of newly learned information in favor of the experimental group, whereas no significant difference was noticed in the post test between the attitudes scores of the groups. However, a significant difference was observed between the retention of attitudes scores in favor of the experimental group. The opinions of students, parents and teachers regarding the model were presented based on interviews. After the analysis of students' diaries, experiences of students through the process and their opinions about the application of the model were put forth supported by quotations. Suggestions were made based on the findings and comments. Keywords: Flipped learning, science, academic achievement, attitude, primary school.