Tech snacks had been on hiatus for the winter break, though I have been keeping myself busy with my upcoming book project and various ed tech initiatives. Recently, I had come across a piece of work called the Periodic Table of STEAM apps by Mark Anderson @ictevangelist. With Mr. Anderson’s permission, I hyperlinked all the apps on the table using the tool thinglink. If you want to see what the finished product looks like, click on the link below: https://ictevangelist.com/periodic-table-of-steam-ipad-apps-updated/.
So now without further delay, let's get right to the tech snack. Today's tech snack can be found at the following url: http://letsrecap.com.
What is it and how can I use it in my classroom?
Recap is a free online tool that allows teachers to receive video responses and feedback from their students. Recap will work on any Internet enabled device with webcam technology including tablets and smartphones. If you are using a desktop/laptop, recap will work directly from any Internet browser. If you have a smartphone/tablet, you will need to download the free recap app to provide responses (more on this in a moment...).
To begin using recap, you must go to their website using a laptop/desktop and sign up for a free account. **Note, the app only works to receive student feedback. Currently, the app does not support teacher accounts on mobile devices. Also, if students are using computers to record their responses, they must use Google Chrome or Firefox as the recording feature does not work for Safari or Internet Explorer.** Once you have created an account, you may set up your class by typing the name of the class. You can then add students manually or students can sign up using their own e-mail addresses. I recommend that you manually input your students if you teach elementary school students. Older students are certainly able to sign up using their e-mail accounts.
When you have created a class, that class will receive a unique pin. Every member of that specific class will have the same pin. Students will need that pin regardless if they are inputted manually or if you have students sign up with their e-mail addresses.
After you have created a class, you may create a recap activity. You have to click on the add recap button to do this. You will then be able to give your activity a name and enter the question(s) you want the students to answer. You may type your question or make a recording of your question by clicking on the record video button.You may add as many questions as you like to your recap activity.
Once a student has submitted a response, the teacher will receive an e-mail alert. The teacher will then be able to log into their teacher account using a desktop/laptop. The teacher will be able to see all the completed activities and can also provide feedback to students via a comment text box. Teachers can then share video responses via a web link to parents or others in the school community.
Classroom implications
Recap can be used for any subject matter as you can tailor your questions in any way you want. This tool allows you to challenge your students to reflect on their learning and can be used at any stage of a unit or project. You can use this tool in class to record student responses but you can also use this tool to create a flipped/blended learning environment. Students can be assigned a recap activity at home and provide their feedback. The teacher can then look at the responses and then can structure the in-class lesson based on the responses.