#GroupMe

Informal discussions

GroupMe is chat tool for any device -- mobile, desktop, tablet -- that allows users to interact without sharing personal contact details. The informal nature of the GroupMe platform enhances the social interactions among an academic group. Many faculty have found this useful, especially in asynchronous online learning and during the pandemic.

GroupMe for student engagement & support

I create a unique GroupMe site for each of my courses. This is a free group texting platform. When users download the app, notifications go directly to their cell phone. Users can also access this app from any device. Professors can ask questions and post reminders. Students can ask questions, and all can benefit from the answers. It is more expeditious than answering one student email after another. Students can also post photos, memes, and gifs.

The community that is built through these social interactions and emotionally supportive environment is powerful. It is very gratifying that students are still reaching out through this platform to not only me, but also their peers.