For in-class communications, we will be using Google Chat. Chat is integrated in Google Workspace . You are going to need to log in with your NYU account to be able to use Chat and the other Google apps for this class. You will receive an invite from me to join the class chat room.
(The following sections of "Managing Participation in Chat" and "What can we not do in Chat" are quoted from NYU Abu Dhabi. (2020). CDAD-UH 1033EQ: Data and Human Space course syllabus. Abu Dhabi, UAE: David Joseph Wrisley. https://sites.google.com/nyu.edu/dhs/chat?authuser=0 )
It is possible to have direct messages and linked Google Meet calls (that are like zoom, skype, etc). Since it is part of Google Workspace, you can share materials from Drive. The rooms and threads are searchable and can be used for your reference throughout the semester.
We will use Chat as a means of communication to straddle synchronous and asynchronous modes of communication. While we may end up speaking to each other in real time, it is also possible that we will not have internet access all the time, that we may choose to have some time away from our devices or fellow students may be sleeping in another timezone. This means that we should be patient in Chat and expect different kinds of conversations to take place.
I do not want anyone to feel overwhelmed by Chat. It may take some time for us to get used to this style of communication as a class. Here are some tips I adapted from Griffis:
Remember that you can easily set your availability and even set a "do not disturb" status for several hours -- this will be important if you choose to install the app for your phone and it's time to go to bed or you need some time out or concentration time.
Remember that no one will be able to respond super fast to your contributions. In the general room, I will not be checking messages generally after dinner time until the next morning.
Default to public messages. Chances are that if you have a question, someone else does too. The general room is for course housekeeping questions.
Tag someone if you would like to acknowledge them for their contribution or bring them into the conversation. Think about this the way you would in terms of an equitable, balanced conversation in the classroom. Use a positive, constructive tone to engage with your colleagues with respect.
If there is something that we need in order to understand your communication, attach it (a link, a screenshot, a doc). This will keep the conversation moving in a targeted, sharp way.
Thread the conversations when you can (I mean use the reply function to an existing conversation). Search for keywords and use an appropriate thread if it exists.
If you choose to have notifications for Chat, you don't have to check them all the time. Just like with other messaging, consult them for when you have some downtime.
I encourage you to think about chat as an unencrypted messaging system, one that is private to the members of the class. Just as with other forms of remote delivery, Zoom or Teams, NYUAD policy states that we will not be allowed to share screenshots or excerpts of the interactions in class with others outside the course, and for no reason, should they appear in social media of any kind, including Whatsapp, Snapchat, Facebook, etc. Your instructor will not be able to give feedback or grades, discuss grades, share personal information, or discuss sensitive issues in Google Chat. These need to be addressed by email or a zoom session.