Padlet
Padlet is an educational technology startup company based in San Francisco, California and Singapore. Padlet provides a cloud-based software-as-a-service, hosting a real-time collaborative web platform in which users can upload, organize, and share content to virtual bulletin boards called "padlets".
It is an online tool that serves as a virtual bulletin board, allowing users to post and organize digital content, such as text, images, videos, and links, in a visual and interactive format.
Where is the tool used?
Padlet finds application in various educational, professional, and creative contexts. It is used in classrooms, workshops, brainstorming sessions, project management, and knowledge sharing. The tool's adaptability and versatility make it valuable for a wide range of activities.
How to use the tool?
To use Padlet, users create a digital board and add "notes" to it, which can contain text, images, videos, links, and other multimedia elements. These notes can be arranged, resized, and organized based on the user's preferences. Users can collaborate in real-time, adding content and interacting with others' contributions.
Specifics for SEL contexts
In the context of synchronous electronic learning, Padlet's multifaceted capabilities contribute to an enriched and interactive learning experience through the following key features:
● Real-time Interactive Canvas: Padlet transforms into a dynamic canvas during live discussions, allowing participants to seamlessly contribute their thoughts and ideas concurrently. Learners engage in a fluid exchange of perspectives, cultivating an environment of instant interaction and collaboration.
● Continuous Evolution of Conversations: With Padlet's instant updates, learners can observe the ongoing development of discussions in real-time. This feature nurtures an engaging and evolving dialogue, fostering deeper insights, and encouraging participants to actively contribute throughout the conversation.
● Facilitates Dynamic Brainstorming: During collaborative brainstorming sessions, Padlet offers an aesthetically pleasing platform where learners collectively generate, organize, and refine ideas. Visual organization enhances the clarity of concepts and stimulates group creativity, making it a powerful tool for problem-solving and ideation.
● Visual Representation of Insights: Padlet's visual format enables learners to illustrate their thoughts through a combination of multimedia elements like text, images, videos, and links. This capability not only enhances engagement but also aids in the comprehensive communication of ideas.
● Flexible Content Arrangement: Participants can arrange and resize content elements (notes) on Padlet boards, allowing for customized organization. This flexibility accommodates various learning styles and encourages learners to curate and present their contributions effectively.
● Collaborative Learning Repository: Padlet boards serve as collaborative repositories, capturing the collective knowledge and perspectives of participants. Learners can revisit these visual records to reflect on discussions, solidify their understanding, and continue to build upon shared insights.
● Supports Diverse Learning Activities: Padlet's adaptability lends itself to a range of learning activities, from structured discussions and brainstorming sessions to content curation and peer feedback.
Incorporating Padlet into synchronous electronic learning environments empowers learners to actively participate, express their ideas vividly, and collectively shape the learning process. Its intuitive interface and dynamic functionalities contribute to a more engaging and effective learning journey.
Learning activities
Group Discussions and Peer Feedback: Padlet boards can be used to host group discussions on various topics, allowing learners to share their perspectives and provide feedback to their peers.
Content Curation: Learners can curate relevant resources from the web and present them on a Padlet board, creating a collective repository of knowledge.
Accessibility and technical specifics
Type of tool:
Padlet offers both free and premium plans, accommodating various usage needs. It is not open source.
Materials needed:
Padlet is a web-based tool accessible through modern web browsers. Users require a device with internet access to create and interact with Padlets.
Accessibility:
Padlet provides a user-friendly experience with its intuitive interface. It also offers dedicated mobile apps for iOS and Android devices, enhancing accessibility for users on the go. For trainers, Padlet offers a resource center on its website, including tutorials, tips, and inspiration for effectively integrating the platform into teaching practices.
Links to videos and instructions
Website tools: https://padlet.help/l/en
Padlet Youtube Channel | TutorialPlaylists: https://www.youtube.com/padlet
Other useful links: Padua University Padlet guidelines
1