How to access your Frreform library and start a new one.

Use Freeform to construct a permanent virtual whiteboard that can be shared with students in view only mode or as a pdf. Use it in the 'Explain and Model' phase of the learning cycle, adding your text, images, links, scans, videos or audio files. This doesn't have the response and feedback elements of whiteboard.fi, which is much more useful for learning checks, but neither does it have a 30 day limit which allows students to access explanations... forever.

Insert images or videos of group work and ask peers to leave feedback. In this example, we have images of drama groups and a music performance video. Students zoom in (using a pinch gesture) and leave sticky notes identifying strengths and areas for improvement. You could even add scans of students' written work directly within Freeform, around which students can leave feedback.

In this MFL example, students are asked to sort tenses. Suggestions are grouped within each tense. The group titles and boxes are locked to prevent students accidently moving them.

In this Geography example, students are asked to zoom in to specific areas of the map and provide population density data. Allocate a different country to individuals or small groups of students. Zoom in on Russia to see an example.

In this English example, students are asked to compare characters from Macbeth. Students zoom in using a pinch gesture and leave their comments. You could even pre-populate the images with sticky notes and headings and ask students to add detail to each sticky note. 

Use the collaborative space to present and organise ideas. In the first instance all group members are free add / brainstorm their initial thoughts without discussion or any form of quality control. Then the group reviews each idea in turn, identifying strengths and dismissing flawed thinking. As the discussion continues, the stronger ideas and elements are exposed and this informs their project planning. This strategy gives all students a chance to contribute and develop leadership skills, avoiding domination by a single student with a preconceived project vision.