Dr Suzanne Reid suggests creating connections with students through personal expression.
Do you struggle to foster a sense of ‘learner’ community among your students?
Many students feel disconnected in these environments, which can hinder their engagement and sense of belonging.
Try this!
Create a class video montage using student-submitted photos. By celebrating your learning community, you can make large classes feel smaller and more personal.
Teaching challenges addressed:
- Building community in large classes
- Humanising the learning experience
- Enhancing student representation
- Developing class identity
- Making large classes seem smaller
Image: Canva generative AI
Implementation
- Create clear, brief submission guidelines.
- Set up easy submission process.
- Include file size limits.
- Compile photos into video.
- Show in next class session.
- Archive for end-of-semester comparison.
Pro tips
- Add clear content guidelines (incl. what’s inappropriate).
- Specify maximum file size.
- Use simple video editing tools.
- Consider accessibility needs.
- Make participation optional.
- Include diverse representation examples.
- Add background music for engagement.
Benefits
- Increases sense of belonging.
- Builds class identity.
- Encourages self-expression.
- Creates memorable moments.
- Strengthens student connections.
- Shows teacher investment in community.
Teacher’s voice
“Students enjoyed seeing themselves reflected in the video. It celebrates the collective awesomeness of our huge class as well as helping students relate to each other as individuals” – Suzanne
Naturally, the teacher joined in the collective activity, sharing a photo taken from horseback as her contribution.
Try this variation
Create a beginning-and-end semester comparison by inviting students to submit new photos in the final week, showing how they’ve grown or changed through the course. This can create a powerful reflection opportunity and strengthen class bonds.
Accessibility considerations
- Provide alternative ways to participate.
- Include image descriptions.
- Consider audio narratives.
- Offer text-based sharing options.
- Make video captions available.
Have a teaching tip to share? Add it to our jar today. Email: teachwell@auckland.ac.nz
Faculty: Science
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Shared by
Dr Suzanne Reid
Professional Teaching Fellow
School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science