Basecamp

Project ManagementSocial ConstructivismCrisis Communication

Basecamp is a project management and communication tool. On Basecamp, you can set up a virtual space to organize group projects. Each space features a number of tools such as to-do lists, schedules, file sharing, and group chats (campfires) to support team work. Basecamp is an excellent tool for promoting and supporting collaborative group work. It can also increase accountability, time management skills, communication, and productivity among group members. 

Screenshot of teams page (computer version)
Screenshot of Basecamp showcasing the different tools to support group work and learning.

Tool Snapshot

PriceFree (For Education K-12/University)
LearningSocial constructivism
Ease of Use★★★★★
Privacy★★☆☆☆
Accessibility★★★☆☆
Class SizeUnlimited
LoginYes
ISTE*SEmpowered Learner, Global Collaborator
COPPA/
FERPA
No COPPA/FERPA policy found. Check with your school IT administrator.

Ease of Use

This application was rated as 5 stars (excellent) for ease of use. The application is both straightforward and easy to jump into for most beginners, but also provides clear instructions, FAQs, and tutorials for users who may need more support when first using the app.

Privacy

Although Basecamp outlines the steps the company takes to protect its users information and details the location of where the information is kept, the app does not give specifics as to what data is collected. Users are able to provide as much information as they feel comfortable with when signing up for the application, however, if they want to gain access to the free educational version of the app they need to provide information about the school system they are involved with in order to gain an educator license for the app.

Accessibility

Although the app features support for tools such as screen readers, there are no specific tools built into the application to help with accessibility. There is also no general accessibility statement provided by Basecamp.

ISTE Standards

Empowered Learner

Global Collaborator 

Basecamp in 120 seconds 

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Basecamp & the SAMR Model

The SAMR model was developed by Dr. Ruben Puentedura to examine how to successfully integrate technology into the classroom.  Here is an example of how Basecamp might fit within the SAMR model: 

Learning Activities

English

Students can use Basecamp’s “campfire” feature to discuss a book as they read it, the “Docs & Files” feature to post their annotations of the book, and the “To-Dos and Schedule” feature to stay organized and not fall behind in the reading.

Math

Students can post their math homework using the “Docs & Files” feature so teachers can review their work. They can also ask peers questions using the “Campfire” feature if they are stuck on a problem. Students can also use the “To-Dos and Schedule” feature to increase time management by tracking the assignments they have, and visually see the amount of time left before the assignment’s due date.

History

Students can role-play the process of running for the President of the United States. They can use Basecamp to organize their campaign. For example, students can use the to-do feature to outline their campaign actions, use the “Campfire” feature to host rallies and debates, and upload campaign posters and advertisements to their project space. 

Resources

How to Use Basecamp

Follow these steps to get started:

  1. Visit the Basecamp homepage on the web browser of your choice.
  2. In the top right-hand corner of the page click the “Try it FREE” button.
  3. Enter in your information.
    1. First type in your name.
    2. Enter in your email address (Use an educational email address for full access free).
  4. Create a password.
  5. Choose create my new account.
  6. Email teachers@basecamp.com from your education account when you finish to sign up for a free full version of Basecamp for Education users.

Research

Eickholt, J., Jogiparthi, V., Seeling, P., Hinton, Q., & Johnson, M. (2019). Supporting project-based learning through economical and flexible learning spaces. Education Sciences, 9.

Hanif, S., Wijaya, A. F. C., & Winarno, N. (2019). Enhancing Students’ Creativity through STEM Project-Based Learning. Journal of Science Learning, 2(2), 50–57.      

This content is provided to you freely by EdTech Books.

Access it online or download it at https://edtechbooks.org/onlinetools/basecamp.