Setting Up an Online Board for Student Reflections

Purpose: An online board allows students to share their thoughts anonymously, creating a safe space for those who may feel hesitant about speaking up in class.

Step 1: Choose Your Platform

Pick a tool that suits your classroom’s needs:

• Padlet: User-friendly and customizable, with options for anonymous posting.
• Jamboard: A Google-based tool ideal for simple collaboration.
• Google Docs or Sheets: Easy and accessible, especially for schools already using Google Classroom.

Step 2: Create the Board

1. Padlet:
   • Go to padlet.com and sign up or log in.
   • Create a new board and choose a layout (e.g., wall or grid).
   • Enable anonymous posting in the settings.
2. Jamboard:
   • Access Jamboard via jamboard.google.com.
   • Create a new board and add sticky notes for prompts.
3. Google Docs/Sheets:
   • Create a new document or spreadsheet.
   • Add a header for prompts and provide space for student contributions.

Step 3: Add Prompts

Include reflective questions to guide student responses. Examples:

• "What’s one challenge you’re working on reframing with a growth mindset?"
• "Share a time you showed persistence or overcame a challenge."

Step 4: Share the Link

1. Make the board accessible:
   • Adjust sharing settings to allow editing or commenting without sign-ins (if allowed by school policy).
2. Share the link via:
   • QR codes displayed in the classroom.
   • A link shared in your LMS (e.g., Google Classroom, Canvas).

Step 5: Monitor the Board

• Regularly check posts to ensure they remain respectful and appropriate.
• Highlight a few anonymous entries during class discussions to reinforce positive examples.

Optional Enhancements

• Allow students to react with emojis or comments on posts (if the platform supports it).
• Use the board weekly to track growth mindset reflections over time.