Instructional Tools Options
This page lists instructional tools for faculty in D2L Brightspace at Portland Community College. These tools support various aspects of course design, including audio/video learning activities, self-assessments, and interactive content. Click on each tool below to learn more.
If you would like to learn more about video tools you can use, please see the Audio & video options for faculty.
- If you would like to incorporate media (video/audio) as a learning activity in your D2L class, check out these various video options, which are available for student-created video materials and are supported at PCC.
Important Notes
- System & Browser Requirements:
Since all of the Instructional Tools listed on this page will be used in D2L Brightspace, here are the system and browser requirements for D2L Brightspace. We recommend that you use a reliable Windows or Macintosh computer with a recommended browser that meets the specifications from D2L to create any of the Instructional tools listed here. - Recommendation:
Instructional Tools listed here can only be used and accessed in the D2L Brightspace Content area. Best practices if you want to use it in your class: do not use the word “Assignment” as students may confuse D2L Assignments or a Hypothes.is assignment since they will not find it listed there, but they will find it through the Content area.- i.e., Required Activity: Reviewing Hypothes.is Syllabus
Creator+
- What it does: Enables instructors to create visually engaging, interactive content directly in D2L, such as checklists, flip cards, tabs, and click-to-reveal components.
- Best for: Asynchronous & synchronous instructor-led activities.
- Use case: Instructor presentation of materials (not for student interaction).
- More info on Creator+:
- Enroll in the Creator+ course to preview the tool and learn more about it.
H5P
- What it does: Offers a wide range of interactive content types—like quizzes, interactive videos, drag-and-drop exercises, and timelines—to enhance student engagement and learning.
- Best for: Asynchronous and Synchronous activities.
- Use case: Interactive learning activities for students (graded or ungraded).
- More info on H5P:
- Please note: Due to the wide variety of H5P activities (both graded and ungraded), instructors should provide their students with instructions on how to use the specific H5P activities within the course content.
VoiceThread
- What it does: Allows instructors and students to create multimedia presentations and engage in asynchronous voice, video, or text-based discussions.
- Best for: Asynchronous activities.
- Use case: Instructor-only or instructor-student interactions; presentations and interactive learning (graded/ungraded).
- More info on VoiceThread:
- More examples
- Guide for instructor
- Guide for students
- Training opportunities
Hypothes.is
- What it does: Facilitates collaborative annotation of web pages and PDF documents, allowing students and instructors to highlight, comment, and discuss course materials.
- Best for: Asynchronous activities.
- Use case: Collaborative annotation and discussion (instructor-student interactions).
- More info on Hypothes.is:
- More examples
- Guide for instructor
- Guide for students
- Training opportunities
Kahoot!
- What it does: A game-based learning platform for real-time quizzes and interactive activities, often used during live sessions.
- Best for: Synchronous activities.
- Use case: Real-time quizzes or activities during Zoom meetings; instructor and student interaction.
- More info on Kahoot!:
- Request an Account, and/or if you want to use it during a Zoom meeting
- More examples
- Guide for instructor
- Guide for students
- Training opportunities
Annoto
- What it does: Adds interactive commenting and discussion features to videos, allowing students to engage directly with course content and with each other.
- Best for: Asynchronous activities.
- Use case: Interactive video annotations and discussions between instructors and students.
- More info on Annoto:
- How to get started with Annoto
- Example use cases
- Guide for instructor
- Guide for students
Zoom Whiteboard
- What it does: A collaborative digital whiteboard tool within Zoom allows instructors and students to draw, write, and brainstorm in real-time.
- Best for: Synchronous and Asynchronous activities.
- Use case: Collaborative whiteboarding within Zoom sessions; instructor and student interaction.
- More info on Zoom:
- Zoom + ASL Interpretation Technical Guide: Zoom with ASL Interpretation
- Guide for faculty
- Guide for students
Google Apps
- The PCC Google Workspace is managed by the PCC IT Service Desk.
- PCC Google Workspace information (Calendar, Chat, Docs, Slides, etc.)
Accessibility Resources
Portland Community College (PCC) is dedicated to creating an accessible learning environment. The Accessibility Statements & Guides webpage offers information on educational technologies, including tool overviews, accessibility guides, and tutorials. The Online Learning department and the Office of Accessible Education collaborate to address barriers, provide accommodations, and promote inclusivity.
For additional information and support, reach out to PCC’s Office of Accessible Ed. and Disability Resources.