IMAGINE A PLACE: The New Era of Discord
Nowadays, students tend to be more reliant on online learning. While there are Zoom and Google Classrooms, which have realised the dream of e-learning, there is no reason for us to not find other options. Software and online platforms for educators are popular because of their features and instant accessibility. However, there is one program that never expected to be such a hit but has become popular and favoured by many teenagers these days Discord.
Discord is an app which was originally built for gamers. Unlike the traditional chat apps, Discord acts like a classroom, for different open discussions and topics. It provides lots of servers and channels for us to explore and can be beneficial for students learning.
Firstly, Discord’s accessibility brings better experience for users. It is available on mobile and desktop which makes it easier for students to attend classes anywhere and anytime. Plus, many features you need are included in Discord. For instance, you can share images, videos, files, links, and media no matter what they are. Discord is updating frequently to bring new features. For example, a better chat interface and support for larger groups. It is easy to manage multiple conversations along with numerous customised options.
Secondly, Discord provides voice channels where students can interact with others. They can use freely and it gives the flexibility to complete different tasks. Discord also provides roles that can be assigned for group discussions. Teachers can create roles so that only a specific group of students can be involved in a discussion. Its flexibility gives us an opportunity to join different classes as we want. Unlike Zoom, Discord does not need multiple codes for different class sessions as you can join one server using one invitation link for the whole class session.
Moreover, distraction can be seen during classes. As we know, students may be playing online games during class and it is hard enough to keep tracking to see if they are listening or not. Discord lets you know when someone is doing something outside the class through their status messages. It is easy to see if students are paying attention or not. It also gives you the ability to give feedback and interact with students.
Some critics argue that Discord is not that useful as it is mostly for socialising, but it can help a lot of students to improve their social skills by being nice to people while they are moderating their servers.
For some students, e-learning has been a tough transition during the pandemic. The lack of connection between students and teachers is becoming more prevalent. Virtual classes helped but unpleasant experiences of online learning such as delayed responses, sluggish internet speed, and other uncontrollable factors have made us feel frustrated. Yet, online learning is undeterred. Discord aims to help build a community where everyone can learn and work together and be collaborative as much as possible.
Imagine a place that is fun and interactive for both students and teachers, and Discord became a platform where everyone can be involved in the process of learning. Of course it is possible to say that Discord is not perfect, but it has brought us the infinite possibilities of online learning. And that is why the new era of Discord has started.