What are active learning tools?
In support of the University's strategy to offer high-value in-class experiences, this investigation seeks tools for in-class and online teaching and collaboration (active learning). Examples include screen sharing software, free text response, in-class polling tool, collaborative writing in large cohorts/classes etc. This also includes team/group - focused collaborative solutions (in large classes) that support creating and sharing sketches, diagrams, maths and symbols online.
What have we deployed so far?
The eLearning team has deployed UQ Active Learn which consists of an in-class polling tool (UQpoll), free text response tool where results are displayed as a wordcloud (UQwordcloud) and another free text tool where results are displayed as a "Twitter" like feed (UQwordstream).
The eLearning team has also deployed PadletUQ, an online tool which allows the creation of virtual "walls", where students and staff can collaborate, reflect, share links, pictures and videos in a secure location. Coordinators can ask students to contribute to a Padlet wall as part of an in class or out of class activity. Students can also create their own Padlets as part of a learning activity. UQ has a site licence for Padlet that is available to all staff and students. PadletUQ has additional functionality to the free tool, with extra features including privacy setting options, branding and larger file uploads.
The eLearning team is also promoting Mirroring360 screen share tool which is available in every UQ lecture theatre. Mirroring360 allows the instructor to present to the class from a tablet or laptop wirelessly from anywhere in the room. Mirroring360 also lets students share their screen, for instance after group work.
The eLearning team also piloted ECHO360 ALP (Active Learning Platform) in 2016 which is being deployed in 2019. Read more about Student response systems.
What are we deploying?
The eLearning team are deploying the Active Learning Platform (ALP), additional functionality in our current lecture recording system, that provides tools to facilitate class engagement and participation. For more information, please refer to the Echo360 ALP Deployment project page.
What are we investigating?
During 2019 we will be investigating H5P, an open source online toolbox of activities that allows staff to create and share interactive content in courses. It provides an easy way to create small interactive learning objects that can be inserted into courses. Providing students with engaging resources and formative assessment activities that provide immediate feedback. For more information, please refer to the H5P Pilot project page.
We are also following up on access for students to more advanced Office365 collaboration tools for in-class use.
We are also investigating using Zoom to facilitate screen sharing for in-class activities.