Utilize collaborative tools for shared student engagement opportunities.

Through the use of collaborative tools, students can build meaningful connections together. Consider using some of the following tools:

Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Slides, Jamboard)

Microsoft 365 (One Drive, Teams, SharePoint)

Padlet - Padlet is an online virtual “bulletin” board, where students and teachers can collaborate, reflect, share links and pictures, in a secure location. Padlet allows users to create a hidden wall with a custom URL. Padlet creators can also moderate posts, remove posts, and manage their board 24/7.

Canva - Canva is a graphic design platform, used to create social media graphics, presentations, posters, documents and other visual content. The app includes templates for users to use. The platform is free to use.

Flipgrid - Flipgrid is a website that allows teachers to create "grids" of short discussion-style questions that students respond to through recorded videos.

Slido - Slido is an easy-to-use Q&A and polling app that will turn silent listeners into engaged participants.

Mindmeister Example - MindMeister is an online mind mapping tool that lets teachers and students capture, develop and share ideas visually.

Voicethread - VoiceThread is a collaborative, multimedia slide show that holds images, documents, and videos and allows people to navigate slides and leave comments in 5 ways.

Utilize videoconferencing tools for virtual office hours and one-on-one check-ins with your students.

Through the use of videoconferencing tools, students can connect with you during office hours. Consider renaming your office hours to encourage students to actively participate: Student Hours, Student Power Hour, or Biology Happy Hour.

Videoconferencing tools also provide opportunities for you to schedule intentional one-on-one check-ins (10-15 minutes) with your students.

Utilize video announcements and video/audio feedback to "humanize" your course.

Using the tools in your LMS, you can create weekly video announcements for students to see and hear the expectations of the week. You can use this space to answer questions, debrief from the previous week, and provide an overview of the upcoming week.

You can also use video/audio tools to provide feedback for students. Students will be able to hear the intonation in your voice as you support their growth. The video/audio feedback option offers opportunities to identify strengths in the submission, opportunities for growth, additional examples, evidence, or resources, and/or next steps.