Promote collaboration with Microsoft tools

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In the 21CLD collaboration dimension, learners collaborate face-to-face or through digital tools. Even when face-to-face, a variety of Microsoft tools enhance collaborative work and allow learners to work more efficiently.  

Microsoft Teams is a class's digital hub and a wonderful tool for collaborative work. Learners collaborate in a variety of ways within Microsoft Teams. 

• Channels – Educators create channels for each team so the group has a designated place to share all their resources and files. Educators decide if the channel is viewable by everyone or to specific team members. 
• Posts – Learners share resources, discuss ideas, and ask questions to teammates in the posts tab of any channel. 
• Files – Learners collaborate on documents, PowerPoint slides, and Excel spreadsheets directly within Teams and upload media files for easy access. 
• Forms – Learners may add a Forms tab to their channel and collaborate on a survey. Once distributed to respondents, learners analyze the results directly in Teams. 
• Teams calls – Learners may connect with each other via Teams calls when school isn't in session. They may also consult with outside experts by inviting the expert to visit the class via Teams. 

Learn more about Microsoft Teams with the following resources:

• Teams product guide 
• Teams Interactive Guide

OneNote class notebook is a digital three-ring binder for the class. Class notebooks include a collaboration space that is specially designed for learners to work together. Each group uses a specific section designated for the team. Learners add research, brainstorming notes, and presentation drafts to the section. Group members offer feedback directly on the page. With inking devices, learners sketch designs, draw diagrams, and annotate research, making their ideas and resources accessible to everyone.

Learn more about OneNote class notebook with the following resources:

• OneNote product guide  
• OneNote Interactive Guide  
• Recommended OneNote module  

In both Microsoft Teams and OneNote, Immersive Reader provides reading and translation support to learners.

Learn more about Immersive Reader with the following resources: 

• Immersive Reader product guide  
• Immersive Reader Interactive Guide  
• Recommended Immersive Reader module  

Microsoft Whiteboard provides a freeform intelligent canvas where teams can ideate, create, and collaborate visually. Learners can draw, write, or type. They can also add images or sticky notes. It enhances teamwork by allowing all team members to edit and comment directly on the canvas in real time, no matter where they are. Microsoft Whiteboard is available across platforms (Windows, Apple, and Android), allowing all learners to collaborate regardless of device type. It's also available within Teams calls, supporting real-time collaboration in a virtual meeting. 

Learn more about Microsoft Whiteboard with this module:

• Recommended Whiteboard module  

The Microsoft tools for collaboration video below provides some concrete examples of how these tools support collaboration.