Compare Options for Holding Online Small Group Discussions
You can use a variety of tools for online small group discussions. We have outlined solutions, rated them for the effort required, and identified key considerations.
Challenge
As a student, faculty, or staff member, how can I communicate with a small group online?
Solutions
You can use a variety of tools for online small group discussions. We have outlined solutions, rated them for effort required, and identified key considerations.
Canvas Discussions
Canvas provides an integrated system for class discussions, allowing both instructors and students to start and contribute to as many discussion topics as desired. Discussions allow for interactive communication between two or more people; users can participate in a conversation with an entire class or group.
Recommended Resources
Effort Required
Key Considerations
- Discussions can be graded or ungraded
- Variety of options to customize the discussion
Google Workspace
Create documents in this collaborative tool that enables group editing, commenting, and chat.
Effort Required
Key Considerations
- Standard word processing functions
- Synchronous or asynchronous
- Built-in chat functionality
Google Meet
Video and voice conferencing.
Recommended Resources
Effort Required
Key Considerations
- Easily start meetings from Gmail or Google Calendar
- Invite guests to video chat; no Google account required
- Share your screen
- Not available to all Academic Health Center (AHC) & Health Care Component (HCC) users
Zoom
An online video conferencing system that features meeting and webinar capabilities.
Recommended Resources
Effort Required
Key Considerations
- An accessible interface
- Automatic captioning
- Breakout rooms
- Polls and chat