Distance Learning, mLearning, Digital Education, Technology

For nearly four decades, Perry Samson didn’t see many students’ hands raised in his large lecture courses. “I just assumed I nailed class and thre

For nearly four decades, Perry Samson didn’t see many students’ hands raised in his large lecture courses.

“I just assumed I nailed class and threw chalk down and did the victory dance,” says the atmospheric science professor at the University of Michigan. “In reality, they probably had questions but were afraid to ask them.”

There are many Learning Management Systems out there, such as Google Classroom and Seesaw, that allow teachers to post information and questions. In return, students can make comments when prompted by the teacher. While this can be an engaging piece, it still doesn't feel very conversational. This is where using a Backchannel chat can be used facilitate discussions between your students either in the classroom or from a distance.


I know what you may be thinking... "Did he just say chat? As in a chat-room?" Yes chat rooms can have negative connotations with them, but when used correctly in an educational setting, they can be a safe discussion alternative. Two backchannel sites that I am going to suggest allow the teacher to create a virtual room that can only be accessed with a specific link shared by a teacher. This means that you have total control of who has access, keeping your students safe.