UTSA Academic Innovation

Getting Started with Padlet (Student)

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Overview

Padlet is a dynamic online bulletin board that makes collaboration and engagement in your courses fun and easy! You can use it to share your ideas, respond to classmates, and collaboratively build projects with text, images, videos, and more. This guide will show you how to quickly get started with Padlet and provide resources to help you master its features. 

How to Use Padlet for Collaboration and Engagement 

Your instructor will typically share a link to a Padlet board for your class. Once you have the link, joining, and contributing is straightforward:

  1. Access the Padlet: Click on the link provided by your instructor. You usually won't need to create an account, but if your instructor has set it up that way, follow their specific instructions for logging in.
  2. Understand the Layout: Padlet boards come in various formats (Wall, Grid, Stream, Shelf, Canvas, Map, Timeline). Take a moment to see how the content is organized.
  3. Add a New Post:  
    1. Look for a "+" icon or double-click anywhere on the Padlet board.
    2. A new "post" window will appear.
  4. Add Your Content:  
    1. Title/Subject: Give your post a clear title or subject.
    2. Text: Type your response, idea, or question in the main text area.
    3. Add Multimedia: This is where Padlet shines! Click the various icons within the post window to:  
      1. Upload: Add files from your computer (documents, images, videos).
      2. Link: Paste a link to a website, article, or video.
      3. Search (Google/Web): Easily search for images, GIFs, videos, or audio directly from Padlet without leaving the platform.
      4. Camera/Video Recorder: Take a photo or record a video directly.
      5. Voice Recorder: Record an audio message.
      6. Draw: Create a quick drawing or sketch.
      7. Map: Add a location to your post.
    4. Note: Your instructor might enable or disable certain media options.
  5. Publish Your Post: Once you're happy with your contribution, click "Publish" or click outside the post window. Your post will then appear on the Padlet board for everyone to see.
  6. Engage with Peers:  
    1. Comments: Look for a "Comment" option below other students' posts to add your thoughts or questions.
    2. Reactions: Your instructor might enable reactions (likes, votes, stars, grades) to allow for quick feedback on posts. 

Resources

Support 

For support, email [email protected] or call 210-458-4520. 

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