6 Teaching with Microsoft Teams

  • Teams is for Q&A and communication; graded discussions are in Canvas or LMS
  • TA tutoring hours – set separate channel and schedule in Calendar
  • live class/recitation – whiteboard missing but screen sharing works; use external whiteboard such as Scribble Together on iPad
  • use separate iPad or computer for chats during class
  • large classes might require a tech to deal with tech problems and even a moderator for questions
  • need class protocol: speaking, answering questions
  • incorporate polls or discussion prompts – breakout during class
  • pausing a recording would be a useful feature when there are breakouts
  • Breakout channels – breakout rooms coming
  • require video at beginning of class (new 7x7 view)
  • organize Q&A
  • let students know when you are “in the office”
  • being “on”” 24x7 can be a challenge so set boundaries and announce when you available and when not so students can plan
  • use Canvas for graded discussions
  • force students into channels when they contact directly
  • virtual “knock”
  • announce when present
  • 1-on-1 or m-on-1 several times during term to build online presence
  • assign group work for foster social connections
  • consider rearranging groups during regular (not compressed) term
  • Files on Teams vs LMS – have one “place of record” but duplicate to reduce friction
  • daily or weekly at-a-glance to remind students of work to be done and deadlines – students can get “lost” or “demotivated” in online classes
  • set a custom background (ideally a campus or Northeastern logo)

6.1 Inviting Guest Lecturers