Simply put, VoiceThread is a threaded discussion about something visual: an image, slide show, or movie. It works seamlessly with Canvas. Usually, the instructor creates the VoiceThread and students add comments. Students can also be assigned to create their own VoiceThread. The students can post comments or answer questions in the VoiceThread using text, voice… Read more »
Quick Tip
Quick tip of the week: Use Google docs to hold your students accountable for group work
If you have students discuss course content, analyze case studies, or solve problems in small groups or in Zoom breakout rooms, you can hold them accountable for their work by giving them space in a Google doc to record their discussion. Create a Google doc with the assignment prompt and a clearly defined space for… Read more »
Quick Tip of the Week: Endorse Students’ Voices and Choices
COVID, violence against BIPOC, and the upcoming election have many of our students facing extreme stress, isolation, and anxiety. When faced with such strain, it can be difficult for students to learn (Immordino-Yang and Damasio 2007). To help, try to give students agency in your classroom using the following suggestions: Ask students to co-create assignments… Read more »
Quick tip of the week: Encourage Your Students to Come to Virtual Office Hours
One way to connect with your students, particularly in an online course, is to invite them to come to your (virtual) office hours. Students are often shy or reluctant to come to office hours, so think about rebranding them as “coffee breaks” or “casual chats.” Or invite your students to sign up for brief time… Read more »
Quick Tip of the Week: Allow Students to Choose which Zoom Breakout Room to Join
With a recent Zoom update, we can allow students to choose which breakout room they want to join. Instructors could specify topics of discussion for breakout rooms and let students join those based on their interests. Similarly, students could join breakout rooms based on their role in a group project, the type of question they… Read more »