Digital revolution in physical education: Flipped classroom in focus!

Digital revolution in physical education: Flipped classroom in focus!

On September 29, 2025, an insightful guest lecture took place at the University of Leipzig that dealt with digitalization in practical sports teaching. Dr. Jonas Rohleder from the Institute for Mediation Skills in Sports (IVKS) spoke on the topic of “Digitally supported teaching and examination formats in practical sports teaching”. The host was Dr. Damian Jeraj, who hosted the event in a welcoming manner.

This lecture took place as part of the annual meeting of the dvs gymnastics section in Karlsruhe and was part of the IVKS project groups, in particular Safeducation and ComeSport. Dr. Rohleder presented preliminary results on an innovative concept, the so-called “flipped classroom”, which is used specifically in teacher training in the physical activity field of gymnastics.

The concept of the flipped classroom

The flipped classroom concept revolutionizes traditional teaching formats. Learners are encouraged to consume learning material independently, such as through videos or podcasts, before class. The actual lesson then serves to deepen, apply and discuss what has been learned. This method promotes individual learning at your own pace and enables lessons to be better adapted to the needs of the students.

A central element of this approach is the integration of digital media. Interactive learning platforms and online exercises are used to offer multimedia content and make lessons more varied. In addition to flexibility, digital tools offer the opportunity to intensify communication between teachers and students.

Challenges and solutions

Despite the benefits, there are challenges to implementing the flipped classroom. These include access to technology for all students, as well as potential lack of learner engagement with pre-recorded materials. To address these problems, experts recommend, among other things, the provision of devices and interactive learning materials. In addition, teachers should be trained in the use of digital tools to effectively support students.

Dr. Rohleder thanked the working group led by Prof. Dr. Thomas Heinen and Dr. Damian Jeraj for the excellent organization of the event and the continuation of important discussions from Karlsruhe. The discussion about digital education and the role of the flipped classroom in teacher training will certainly continue to be of great importance in the future.

For more information about the flipped classroom and its importance in digital education, please visit uni-koeln.de and das-wissen.de.