Communicate with learners using group messaging tools

Author:
What: Streamline communication with learners through group messaging tools
Send out reminders to learners about homework assignments or share important announcements using a text messaging application such as WhatsApp, Remind, or Talking Points. These apps create a communication channel between you and your learners that learners can access outside the classroom and on their phones.

Why: Student Preferences, equity

Many learners are familiar with text messaging. For many learners, it is a preferred mode of communication. Leveraging this preference makes it more likely learners will see important information and respond. Because learners can receive and send messages directly from their phones, those without a computer or home internet access are supported. GIven this, establishing routine contact with learners can also increase student retention.

Evidence-Based Strategies

This routine is supported by the following strategies:

Text Chats Instructor Accessibility Perspective Seeking/Multiple Perspectives Purposeful Reflection

How: Whats App

Download a mobile-friendly group messaging application on your smartphone such as WhatsApp. Set up a group that includes all learners in your class. Assess your learners’ familiarity with the application and, as needed, send out screenshots or screen capture videos via email or conduct a live screen share to show learners how to 1) set up the application on their phones and 2) send and receive messages. Once the class successfully responds to a test group message, create discussion threads learners can respond to on the app.

EdTech Tool Types: Text + Chat Messaging

View Sample

MO.6 Collaborate Using Mobile Tools

Because learners often use mobile messaging apps for personal communication, help them focus on different texting styles they use based on different settings and audiences in intimate, casual, or formal contexts. Ask questions such as, “Why is messaging an effective tool for helping us collaborate? In what ways do you communicate differently based on different audiences and settings? (e.g., One-on-one text messages with a close friend vs. group messages with your class.) What rules do we need before we begin using group messaging for class activities?”

PS.3 Limit Sharing of Personal Data

All edtech tools have privacy policies that indicate what the app does with users’ information. For example, WhatsApp shares users’ personal data with Facebook. Engage learners in a conversation about reasons and ways to protect personal information when using messaging apps. Help learners take privacy and security considerations into account by asking: “What data can you choose not to share with an app? What type of information should/should not be included in your group messages with the class? What rules have you seen at work, at your child’s school, or at this school about using messaging and social media apps?”