Digital Tool Day: Padlet

 

Padlet is a digital tool that allows users to create collaborative bulletin boards where people can post text, images, videos, links, voice notes, and more. It's widely used in education to promote engagement, reflection, and collaboration among students. Think of it like a virtual sticky-note wall where everyone can contribute in real time.

What Can You Use Padlet For?

• Brainstorming ideas

• Class discussions

• Exit tickets or reflections

• Sharing resources or media

• Student portfolios

• Group projects

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✅ How to Use Padlet (Step-by-Step)

1. Go to www.padlet.com

• Sign up for a free account if you don’t already have one.

• You can also log in using your Google account.

2. Click “Make a Padlet”

• You’ll be prompted to choose a layout (see some common ones below).

3. Choose a Layout

Here are some popular formats:

• Wall – like sticky notes on a grid

• Column – for organizing into categories (like a KWL chart or pros/cons)

• Timeline – for chronological events

• Map – for geotagging locations

• Canvas/Freeform – lets you move posts anywhere

✅ For a digital class contract or organizing opinions, "Column" is often a great choice.

4. Customize Your Padlet

• Click the gear icon ⚙️ to:

  • Name your padlet

  • Add a description or instructions

  • Choose colors, fonts, and icons

  • Change privacy settings (who can view/post)

5. Share with Others

• Click “Share” in the top right.

• Choose your privacy: public, password-protected, or invitation-only.

• Copy and share the link or QR code with your students or colleagues.

6. Start Posting

• Click the "+" button to post.

• You can add:

  • Text

  • Images

  • Videos

  • Voice recordings

  • Files

  • Links

  • Drawings

7. Moderate and Manage

• As the owner, you can:

  • Approve posts before they go live (optional)

  • Turn on comments or reactions (hearts, stars, etc.)

  • Export or print the Padlet

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📚 Example Uses in a Classroom:

• "What do you wonder?" wall after reading a story

• Digital gallery for student projects

• Student check-in board (How are you feeling today?)

• Opinion sharing using the OREO structure

• Class contract where each student adds a value or rule