If you're not sure what exactly a backchannel is, it is "a digital conversation that runs concurrently with a face-to-face activity" (Holland, 2014). It provides a place to capture thinking, share ideas and resources, and communicate with others without interrupting the flow of an activity. This can be a way for students to take notes collaboratively, ask questions to each other, and make meaning for themselves.
Backchannels might happen using something like Twitter or Today'sMeet (you'll see this happen at conferences), but when working with students, it's sometimes a good idea to have that happen in safe space that isn't public or publicly available. That's where something like the Backchannel Chat app in Schoology comes in.
Unlike a Discussion Board, the chat happens in real time with no need to refresh. The chat can include live polling and anonymous posting (but the teacher can see names). Chat transcripts are available after the chat, if needed, and you can use embed code to bring in external media for rich discussions. And because the chat is moderated by a teacher, it provides both a way to assess and hold students accountable for content posted.
Silvia Tolisano's blog had this guide on using a backchannel with students:
Need more ideas? Check out these resources:
- Speak Up in Class, Silently, Using Social Media (NY Times)
- Backchannel in Education: 9 Uses
- 7 Things You Should Know About Backchannel Communication
- 10 Ways to Use Backchannels in Your Classroom
- Benefits to Using Backchannel Chat
As we look for more ways to help kids build digital skills in the 4 Cs, backchannels can be a great option to helping kids learn the power of collaborative conversations.
References
Oh, Erin Wilkey. "Communication in Practice – A P21 Member Perspective from Common Sense Media - P21." Communication in Practice – A P21 Member Perspective from Common Sense Media - P21. Partnership of 21st Century Skills. Web. 08 Feb. 2016.
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