Pebblepad is a third party tool, from Pebble Learning. It is integrated within Learn Ultra using LTI links from the Content Market or can be used direct by going straight to the website for it. https://v3.pebblepad.co.uk/durham/login/ All members of staff and all students are enrolled and use SSO (Single Sign On).
So what can it be used for? Whilst we are being asked for more authentic assessment opportunities, Pebblepad can fulfil a number of options.
Students can create a Portfolio – a series of pages that can include text, videos, audio, links, Youtube and other embed codes and also has blogging functionality. Students have full control over what their portfolio looks like.
Students can create a Website – very similar to a portfolio but has the ability to be made public as if it were a website.
Students can create a blog that they can complete over time which can be monitored and feedback given by a member of the teaching staff.
Students can work collaboratively on building content in Pebblepad – but need to follow guidance on sharing with others.
Teaching staff can build a Workbook for students to complete – this is a more structured activity in that what you are asking your students to do is very prescriptive – there is no student creativity in a Workbook. Workbooks are used very successfully for PGCE students who have to complete tasks and activities, provide evidence and have their work signed off by a School member.
All of the above can be formative or summative and assignment submission points can be created within Pebblepad.
A bonus for students is that if they create a free Alumni Account before they leave the University they will still have access to their work once they have left.