Flipgrid
Collaborative tool for video discussion by Microsoft. Similar to Padlet in that it is like a digital bulletin board, but centered around video submissions. Mixtape function allows the instructor to gather groups of videos and present in other formats.
Pros: Multiple means of organizing and responding to videos, including text and video responses, mixtape function. Library of existing videos from partner producers can be repurposed on your own pages.
Cons: In my (albeit limited) usage of the two, Padlet seems to be capable of most of what Flipgrid does in addition to having other features. Doesn’t appear to be supported by UW.
Links:
- Flipgrid site: Main site which includes a number of text and video tutorials.
Kahoot
Gamified quiz tool which can be used to do informal knowledge checks, homework quizzes, and in-class challenges. Leaderboards show top five scores, so consider how competition fits with the learning in questions.
Pros: Students can join game lobby from their mobile devices or on computers, no login required. Students can use nicknames to anonymize. Turns quizzes into games so they’re more fun, potentially lower-stakes depending on type of assessment.
Cons: Nickname function can be abused by students (e.g. inappropriate usernames). Competition may not always be best means to motivate students!
Links:
- Kahoot website: An almost overwhelming amount of information on how to use Kahoot in different contexts, including video tutorials on setting up different types of activities.
Padlet
Padlet is a collaborative tool that in many ways is like a digital bulletin board, but with more features and ways to organize information. It can be used as a platform for classroom discussion, a brainstorming tool, a place for students to share work with each other (e.g. for peer evaluation), or as a kudos board to say congratulations, thanks, or goodbye to colleagues, classmates, and/or students.
Pros: Supports multiple forms of media (images, videos, text, links, etc.) and includes several different templates for different uses (wall, timeline, map, etc.). Students not required to make an account in order to contribute to a Padlet; anonymous posting can also be enabled for lowering barriers to certain types of participation. Appears to be able to be embedded in Canvas page (may be limited only to Padlet Backpack accounts, which include better privacy features). Lots of suggestions and support for classroom use all over the internet.
Cons: Not officially supported by UW.
Accessibility: Keyboard navigation cannot access settings; no support for low vision. They have acknowledged accessibility shortcomings and have hired outside consultants to improve this as of a year ago.
Links:
- Padlet main site: Includes sign up link and Windows app download (not required).
- Padlet Help site: Includes help search, video tutorials, and a gallery of example Padlets.
- Padlet Backpack: Information about the Padlet version that has more privacy features for classroom use.
Poll Everywhere
Live polling system that can be used to get real-time feedback in classes and presentations. Can be used for a variety of purposes including knowledge checks, collaborative brainstorming, and classroom decision-making.
Pros: FERPA compliant. Low-stakes way to encourage student engagement. Supported by UW.
Links:
- UW IT Service Catalog entry for Poll Everywhere: UW IT information on how to get an account and other information.
- UW IT info on Poll Everywhere: Links to a number of resources for using the app in the UW context. Note: Most of the links to Poll Everywhere’s site are currently broken.
- UW IT Events Calendar: UW IT hosts regular Poll Everywhere office hours for users.
- Poll Everywhere guides: Use guides from the app’s creators.