Online discussion boards and chat applications are often used in traditional courses, hybrid sessions, and virtual classrooms. While traditional courses, and even some hybrid courses, generally have the benefit of in-class discussions, fully online courses often use the discussion board or chat functions as a means of class interaction, to give learners the opportunity to connect with each other and share ideas in an open forum.
Zoho ShowTime offers various types of chat functions where all enrolled learners can participate in a group chat or chat with the trainer privately, as well as secure channels for trainers to discuss their work. In this tips and tricks post, we'll be highlighting the different kinds of chat options available in ShowTime.
Group chats
Full-course group chats allow attendees to exchange messages and ideas with the entire class, helping you host effective brain-storming sessions. Learners can ask the trainer questions and discuss their thoughts with other attendees while the trainer guides their in-depth discussions.
Private chats for trainers
Whether it's getting the training content right, having keynotes ready, or moderating discussions, every training session has a lot of organizing to do. In the midst of all this, it's important for trainers to be able to discuss their work, plan upcoming lessons, and share course information. ShowTime offers trainers private chat channels to help them plan and collaborate effectively in real time. You can click on the People tab and click Chat with trainers to start a private chat.
Private chat for learners
A one-on-one learning connection can empower trainees to take control over their education, have the confidence to communicate what they need, and receive the personalized attention that will enable them to succeed. In ShowTime, an attendee can also initiate a private chat with the trainers in a session by clicking Chat with trainers in the chats pane.
We hope ShowTime's chat capabilities promote real-time discussion and gives your learners a direct connection to both the educator and their classmates. Check out this feature and let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.