Models: Emporium

The local Community College is working with an innovative approach to solve the problem of flagging Math proficiency - The Emporium Model from the National Center for Academic Transformation. It seems to be a 'Flipping the Classroom' type model.  It reminds me of Khan Academy which I didn't really get until I saw this TED Talk:

Models: Emporium: The Emporium Model

• Eliminates all lectures and replaces them with a learning resource center model featuring interactive software and on-demand personalized assistance.
• Depends heavily on instructional software, including interactive tutorials, practice exercises, solutions to frequently asked questions, and online quizzes and tests.
• Allows students to choose what types of learning materials to use depending on their needs, and how quickly to work through the materials.
• Uses a staffing model that combines faculty, GTAs, peer tutors and others who respond directly to students’ specific needs and direct them to resources from which they can learn.
• May require a significant commitment of space and equipment.
• More than one course can be taught in an emporium, thus leveraging the initial investment.

TED Talk on Khan Academy