Connecting and Collaborating: Recipes for Engagement
The Instructional Technology Team shared engagement tools and strategies at the Teaching Exchange Symposium Info Fair.
Welcoming educators to the Instructional Technology Info Fair table, "Recipes for Engagement," at the Teaching Exchange Symposium felt like serving up a hearty stew – warm, inviting, and rich with outcomes. With burners on and ideas simmering, we gathered simple, thoughtful ingredients: integrated tools and Brightspace communication strategies to discuss making course sites more engaging. If you missed us, don’t worry. We’ve saved you a helping:
Integrated Technology Tools
Like any good recipe that needs balance and the right seasoning, an online course site thrives on carefully chosen engagement technologies. We shared the advantages of using Feedback Fruits – a flexible tool that encourages active dialogue and collaboration; H5P – for adding quizzes, interactive videos, and scenario-based learning into lessons; Panopto – a video platform perfect for flipped classrooms and on-demand learning; and Top Hat – a lively tool for real-time polling, attendance, interactive assignments, and gamified activities.
Each technology was presented as part of a potential recipe for engagement: elements that spark participation creativity, and build stronger learning communities. We were clear—there were no mystery ingredients here. Just practical, UA-supported tools that complement Brightspace course sites—chili and chocolate—a little unexpected but packed with depth and complexity.
Brightspace Tools
We also explored how a structured communication plan is an essential ingredient for effective teaching and learning. Weekly video announcements establish expectations and create a welcoming presence. Timely reminders from Intelligent Agents can nudge learners toward deadlines without overwhelming them; and, informed use of the Brightspace Calendar can promote clarity while keeping students on track, accountable, and empowered. Together, these strategies work to encourage self-directed learning and set students up for success!
The Takeout
Our conversations with educators were lively and full of curiosity. We swapped stories, compared ideas, and picked up new tips. And while some visitors brought challenges; others offered solutions we hadn’t yet considered. It reminded us that every classroom has its own rhythm and that sometimes the best results come from experimenting with care.
We hope everyone left with a little something: a new idea, a helpful nudge, or maybe just the reminder that recipes for engagement – like a great meal – are always better when shared.
And if you stopped by our table, or are reading this now, consider this just a sample platter. The Instructional Technology Team is standing by ready to mix, stir, and help you cook up something wonderful for your next course design.
