Slack

ConnectivismProject ManagementCollaborationSocial ConstructivismCrisis Communication

Slack is a communication and task management tool. Users can create specialized messaging groups, or “channels,” according to different projects, teams, and organizations. What makes it different from other communication tools is that it is specifically created for work and collaboration. Files that are up to 1GB can be sent and searched within a channel, which makes file management easy. Slack also allows users to integrate over 1,500 apps and services into the chat, so that they can work without having to switch tabs and accounts. Functions like video chatting and screen sharing make it ideal for teamwork. Bringing Slack into the classroom can increase communication and collaboration, facilitate project management, and allow students to learn how to use a tool that is popular in many workplaces today.

Screenshot of slack homepage: Slack as your digital HQ Learn how Slack gives you the flexibility to be productive from anywhere  RESOURCES WEBINARS


Tool Snapshot

PriceBasic version: Free; $6-13/month for advanced features
LearningConnectivism, Social Constructivism
Ease of Use★★★☆☆
Privacy★★☆☆☆
Accessibility★★★☆☆
Class SizeUnlimited
Login Yes
ISTE*SEmpowered Learner, Creative Communicator, Global Collaborator
COPPA/
FERPA 
COPPA is irrelevant, because of the age restriction. FERPA is mentioned in the Terms of Service.

Slack Overview Video

Watch on YouTube


Slack & the SAMR Model

Dr. Ruben Puentedura’s SAMR model offers a lens for examining how technology is adopted in a classroom. As you strive to incorporate online tools into your classroom, we encourage you to use this model as an analytic tool.

Learning Activities

Empowered Learner

Creative Communicator

Global Collaborator

How to Use Slack

Follow these steps to get started on Slack: 

  1. Go to slack.com and create an account using your email address.
  2. Follow the instruction to set up your account.
  3. If you already have an account, enter your workspace from the ‘sign in’ button.
  4. Create or enter a channel for group messaging.
  5. Start or enter direct messages for one-to-one conversations.
  6. Invite teammates by sending them emails from Slack.
  7. Send files or messages from the bar at the bottom.
  8. React or respond to a message.

Read Slack’s tutorial on how to get started to for more instructions on the basics or watch this Youtube playlist created by Slack to see instructions in action.

Resources

Research

Phillips, A. L., Edwards, S., Parmesar, K., Soltan, M., & Guckian, J. (2021). Slack as a virtual undergraduate dermatology community: a pilot study. Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 46(6), 1028-1037.

Tuhkala, A., & Kärkkäinen, T. (2018). Using Slack for computer-mediated communication to support higher education students’ peer interactions during Master’s thesis seminar. Education and Information Technologies, 23(6), 2379-2397.

This content is provided to you freely by EdTech Books.

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