We find ourselves in the era of a new paradigm of education, in which learning ceases to be an internal and individual activity and becomes an activity performed collectively, critically, in participation with others, and online (Siemens, 2005). It is in this sense that the flipped classroom model arises. The present study provides evidence of the model’s efficacy at the university. The study investigates whether the model improves: the teaching and learning processes, the satisfaction in the development of the course, the academic performance of students and the assessment of professors. The method used consisted of an evaluative study and the collection of data from both professors and students. Regarding students, we analysed the following set of data: academic results, the university’s official survey, a questionnaire created and validated for the purpose of this study, and a focus group. Regarding professors, we collected data by interviewing the professors that organized the course. The results were in line with the previous study carried out by Yarbro, Arfstrom, McKnight and McKnight (2014). The study by Yarbro and colleagues, as well as present study, confirmed that the model contributed to: the enrichment of teaching and learning processes, aspects related to the integration of concepts, the role change of professors and students, the improvement of the processes of participation and communication, the integration of the ICTs, the improvement of academic results, and the promotion of student interest in the course.

Universities are currently immersed in what is known as the process of European convergence to create the European Higher Education Area (EHEA). The aim is to establish a standardized, compatible and flexible European university system that enables graduates and undergraduates to move easily from one institution to another within Europe. As a result of evaluation mechanisms, the system will be transparent and of high quality, which will make it attractive and competitive internationally in a globalized world. In this paper, we focus on two distance learning modes that will become more important as a result of this change in universities: e-learning and b-learning. These basically involve the virtualization of learning processes through the use of computer equipment. We carried out a qualitative study using the case study method. The results indicate that teaching staff use information and communication technology (ICT) to improve student learning. Similarly, a high percentage (78%) of lecturers use some form of digital platform as a support for teaching. In conclusion, training policies should strengthen university teachers’ skills in the use of ICT equipment, tools and resources related to blended and virtual learning.Actualmente las universidades están inmersas en lo que se conoce como el proceso de «convergencia europea» y que llevará al Espacio Europeo de Educación Superior (EEES). El objetivo es dotar a Europa de un sistema universitario homogéneo, compatible y flexible que permita a los estudiantes y titulados universitarios europeos una mayor movilidad, así como ofrecer al sistema universitario europeo unos niveles de transparencia y calidad, mediante sistemas de evaluación, que le hagan atractivo y competitivo en el ámbito internacional dentro del actual proceso de globalización. En este artículo, interesa centrar la reflexión en dos de las modalidades de la educación a distancia que asumirán importancia en ese cambio universitario: el e-learning y el b-learning, que consisten básicamente en la virtualización de los procesos de aprendizaje a través del uso de equipos informáticos. Para ello se ha realizado una investigación cualitativa con metodología de estudio de casos. De entre los resultados se destaca el uso de las TIC por parte del profesorado para conseguir un mejor aprendizaje en los estudiantes, de igual forma un porcentaje importante de los profesores 78% utiliza alguna plataforma virtual como apoyo a la docencia. Como conclusión se resalta que las políticas de formación deberían fortalecer las competencias del profesorado universitario en el uso de dispositivos telemáticos, recursos e instrumentos relacionados con el aprendizaje semipresencial y virtual.

A quantitative study was carried out with the aim of analyzing the perspective of the students in relation to the factors that have influenced quality teaching during the confinement period resulting from the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. To do this, an ad hoc questionnaire was designed and conducted in the months of June–July 2020. The sample consisted of 893 people who were studying at various Spanish universities. The results show little diversity in teaching methodologies; virtual teaching was carried out with the same parameters as face-to-face teaching. The role of the student body was one of passivity, consisting of little interaction with the teachers. Although it is true that there were no difficulties in following the course, there was limited attention paid to the emotional well-being of the students. Amongst the conclusions garnered significant, we point out the need to develop the adaptability of university teaching staff to unforeseen situations, as well as a continuing reflection on the model used in the teaching process mediated by digital technologies and the importance of promoting greater autonomy and self-regulation during learning.

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to examine the role of school leaders to provide social justice in three contexts: Costa Rica, Mexico, and Spain.Design/methodology/approach: A qualitative study was conducted under the interpretative tradition characterized by a search for an understanding of the social world from the point of view of a school director from each of the three countries. Interviews were conducted to determine their views on social justice, the actions they took, and the obstacles they confronted.Findings: The directors conceived of education as a right and believed in equal educational opportunity, and fair distribution of resources. They used a variety of methods to promote social justice, increase social cohesion, and provide emotional education. Obstacles came from educational authorities who tried to control rather than support their efforts. They were committed to working in schools with marginalized populations, but their efforts had taken a toll on their personal and professional lives.Research limitations/implications: The research looked at just three principals whose experiences were unique to their context. However, the study has the advantage of looking at schools not typically included in educational research.Practical implications: The work of these school directors underscores the need for preparation in skills, knowledge, and values to work for social justice.Originality/value: The value of this research is to illuminate the narratives of school leaders. Working across borders can provide insights about the possibilities of change and strength to persevere.

RESUMEN El artículo analiza el aprendizaje informal del profesorado y su vinculación con el desarrollo profesional y organizacional. La revisión de la literatura detalla las implicaciones de estas para las organizaciones en general, y centros educativos en particular. Se destaca la importancia de la práctica reflexiva del profesorado, sus actitudes positivas ante el cambio y el trabajo colaborativo. La promoción del aprendizaje informal queda apoyada en factores individuales, grupales y organizacionales, base para una propuesta pedagógica para fomentar el aprendizaje informal en los centros educativos. Como conclusión, se apuntan posibilidades y limitaciones del aprendizaje informal para las organizaciones que aspiran a su consideración como elemento para la mejora profesional y organizacional.