Synchronous Online Tools for Success

THIS WORKSHOP IS FOR KPU FACULTY.

Facilitators: Lisa Gedak, Robin Leung
Dates: 2-part workshop series (attend both dates)
- Thurs, Sept 18, 1:00-2:30PM, Zoom
- Mon, Sept 22, 1:00-2:30PM, Zoom
Online working. Zoom link provided upon registration.

Student engagement is critical to building community, increasing motivation and supporting the achievement of learning outcomes. When used thoughtfully, online synchronous tools can transform passive online learning experiences into dynamic, collaborative learning experiences that support student success and retention.   

This two-session (90 minutes each) workshop series is designed to introduce KPU educators to a selection of online synchronous tools that promote engagement, collaboration, and real-time learning success. Participants will be introduced to a range of tools that support formative assessment, concept mapping, collaborative activities such as brainstorming and problem-solving, as well as project planning and management.   

As KPU transitions to Zoom as its primary instructional conferencing tool, session one will focus on some of Zoom’s built-in features. Participants will have the opportunity to explore and interact with enhanced breakout room options, collaborative whiteboard features, and other interactive tools that can transform traditional lecture-style sessions into engaging, student-centered learning experiences.  

In session two, participants will broaden their repertoire of real-time teaching tools by exploring two additional platforms: KPU’s institutional Padlet and the externally approved tool, Mentimeter. Through hands-on activities and practical demonstrations, participants will discover how each tool can be used to boost student engagement, foster meaningful interaction, and support active learning in synchronous online environments. 

Through engaging in the activities and content of this workshop, you have the opportunity to: 

Session One Learning Outcomes 

• Identify Zoom features that promote student engagement, collaboration, and real-time learning success.   

• Engage in various interactive Zoom-based activities that model strategies for synchronous sessions   

• Consider how to integrate one or more Zoom features into online synchronous sessions in context.    

Session Two Learning Outcomes   

• Explore Padlet and Mentimeter; tools that can be integrated into synchronous online sessions to support collaboration and interaction. 

• Engage in various interactive Padlet and Mentimeter activities that model strategies for synchronous sessions. 

• Consider how to integrate one or more Padlet or Mentimeter features into online synchronous sessions in context.