Canvas Conferences - A Synchronous Opportunity

There are many tools that will allow you to communicate synchronously with your online, blended, or even face-to-face courses. If you are a Canvas LMS user, one such integrated tool is the Conferences feature utilizing Big Blue Button. This tool allows entire classes to virtually meet and communicate utilizing text/audio/video chat (whole group, small group, or private), document sharing and annotation, desktop sharing, audience interaction, and even multiple presenters. Conferences can be recorded and saved in the course shell for up to 14 days - perfect for students who are not able to attend the synchronous session or those who need to return to it to review specific sections. View a quick overview below (hint: click the box icon next to the YouTube logo in the lower corner to display the video in full screen mode - or click the YouTube link itself to view in full screen via their site if your browser has disabled full screen viewing - so that it's easier to see everything!).

There are several ways you could use this type of synchronous session to support your instruction. First, this would be a terrific way to offer a review or study session, reinforcing previous knowledge. You could "meet" with groups to discuss project proposals, conduct a spot-check and provide feedback, or have them present. You could even do the same with individuals - a virtual one-on-one conference. If you play around with it, I'm sure you'll come up with many more uses!